Exporting Your Pet from Australia: What DAFF Requires for Departure
Australia is known for its strict pet import rules, but the export process is equally structured. DAFF manages both incoming and outgoing animal movements, and the export of a pet requires the same systematic approach as an import.
The DAFF Export Process
All permanent pet exports from Australia must be facilitated through DAFF:
Apply for export permit – via BICON (bicon.agriculture.gov.au). Select your destination country to see the applicable requirements.
Find a DAFF-accredited export vet – not all vets are accredited for pet export work. Find one via the DAFF website or ask your regular vet if they are accredited.
Destination country health certificate – your accredited vet prepares this according to the destination country’s template. DAFF endorses it.
Timing – the health certificate is valid for a specific period (typically 10 days for most countries). Book the vet appointment to fit within this window before travel.
Destination-Specific Requirements
The destination country drives what is needed:
To the UK: Microchip, rabies vaccination, AHC template, DAFF endorsement. Australia is Part 1 listed – no titre test required for UK entry. Dogs need tapeworm treatment 1 to 5 days before UK arrival.
To the USA: Standard USDA-endorsed health certificate. Rabies vaccination required for dogs. CDC import requirements apply. Relatively straightforward.
To EU countries: AHC template as above (UK-style). Australia is an approved third country for EU pet imports in many categories.
To Japan: Very specific. Two rabies vaccinations with correct timing, titre test, 180-day wait, advance notification to Japan AQS. Start this process 8+ months before intended departure.
To New Zealand: Titre test, import permit via MPI, 10-day quarantine. Relatively well-defined process.
Airline Booking from Australia
Major carriers on Australian routes handling live animals include Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. Each has specific policies on crate sizes, breed restrictions, and seasonal restrictions. Book the animal’s space with the airline cargo department directly – not through the passenger booking system alone.
Post-Export: Cancelling Australian Registrations
When permanently leaving Australia:
- Cancel your dog’s council registration (or notify the council of the permanent export)
- Update microchip registration databases (Australian Animal Registry, or relevant state registry) to note the export
- Cancel Australian pet insurance
DAFF and BICON
Everything export-related runs through BICON: bicon.agriculture.gov.au
DAFF’s export team can be reached via the portal for specific queries. For complex routes (multi-country, restricted species, birds), contact DAFF directly before starting the process.
This guide is accurate as of May 2026. DAFF export requirements are regularly updated – always verify via BICON before beginning the export process.