Australia Pet Relocation Requirements Overview: Moving Pets to Australia from Hong Kong (Relocation from/to other territories, please feel free to contact us for details) Australia currently permits the import of cats and dogs only from approved countries, with all other pet species prohibited from entry. This strict policy is part of Australia's comprehensive biosecurity measures to protect the country's unique wildlife and maintain its disease-free status. Australia maintains some of the world's strictest pet import regulations due to its isolated location and commitment to protecting unique wildlife and maintaining disease-free status. All pets entering Australia undergo mandatory quarantine at Mickleham Quarantine Facility in Melbourne for a minimum of 10 days, with no exceptions except for pets from New Zealand.
Start planning 8-9 months in advance: This timeline is crucial for completing all required tests, vaccinations, and waiting periods Hong Kong is classified as Group 3 country, requiring more complex procedures including the Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) Some steps must be completed in specific sequences with mandatory waiting periods Key Planning Requirements: Timeline & Advanced Planning
Essential Requirements Checklist 1. Microchipping Compliant microchip must be implanted before rabies vaccination Microchip must be verified by Hong Kong AFCD government offices before RNATT blood test 2. Rabies Vaccination & Blood Testing Current rabies vaccination required throughout the export process RNATT (Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test) mandatory for pets from Hong Kong Blood test must be performed at least 180 days before export Test results valid for 12 months only Must be conducted at approved international laboratory 3. Additional Vaccinations Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus Cats: Feline Panleukopenia, Cat Flu All vaccinations must be current and administered by licensed veterinarian 4. Health Certificates & Documentation Import Permit from Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Valid Health certificate Parasite treatment records for internal/external parasites All documentation must have consistent details (microchip numbers, dates, etc.)
Breed Restrictions & Special Considerations Prohibited Breeds Australia does not accept the following dog breeds: Pit Bull Terrier (American Staffordshire Terrier) Japanese Tosa Dogo Argentino Fila Brasileiro Any crossbreeds of the above Travel Restrictions Pets cannot travel in-cabin on flights to Australia All pets must travel as manifest cargo with climate-controlled conditions Pregnant dogs (over 30 days) are not permitted Must use IATA-approved travel crates
Quarantine & Arrival Process Mickleham Quarantine Facility Minimum 10-day quarantine at Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine Facility, Melbourne Advanced booking required - spaces are limited and fill quickly Quarantine may be extended if additional health checks are needed Customs clearance takes approximately 4-6 hours upon arrival
Costs & Logistics Transportation Methods Manifest cargo only - pets cannot travel as excess baggage to Australia Direct flights available from Hong Kong to Melbourne All pets must arrive at Melbourne International Airport for quarantine processing Important Notes for Pet Owners Sedation is strongly discouraged during flights due to altitude risks All original documents must travel with pet as their "passport" Continuous tick and flea prevention recommended throughout the process
PetMover understands the complexity of Australia's pet import requirements and provides comprehensive support throughout the 8-9 month preparation process. Our team handles everything from RNATT blood testing coordination, government documentation, quarantine booking, to final health checks - ensuring your beloved pet's safe journey to their new Australian home. Expert Pet Relocation Support Choose PetMover for secure, reliable, and compassionate pet relocation by air —because every animal deserves the best journey home.