Cost of Moving a Pet from UK to Australia | 2026 Guide
Moving a pet from the UK to Australia is not cheap. It is, however, absolutely achievable with the right planning and budget. Here is a realistic breakdown of what to expect, based on current 2025-2026 costs.
The cost breakdown
Pre-travel veterinary costs:
- Microchip (if not already done): GBP 20 to 60
- Rabies vaccination: GBP 30 to 80
- Titre test (blood draw): GBP 60 to 120
- Titre test laboratory fee (UK approved lab): GBP 80 to 150
- Health certificate preparation by government-listed vet (within 10 days of travel): GBP 80 to 200
- APHA endorsement of health certificate: GBP 30 per animal
Australian import requirements:
- DAFF import permit application fee: approximately AUD 60 to 120
- Pre-export health treatment (such as internal parasite treatment): GBP 30 to 80
Airline cargo charges:
- These vary significantly by route, aircraft type, and time of year
- Typical range for a medium dog (e.g. Cocker Spaniel, crate approximately 70 x 50 x 50 cm): GBP 800 to 1,800
- Large dog (e.g. Labrador, crate approximately 90 x 60 x 67 cm): GBP 1,200 to 2,500
- Cat (small to medium, crate approximately 60 x 40 x 40 cm): GBP 600 to 1,200
- Rates from London Heathrow (LHR) to Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), or Brisbane (BNE)
Quarantine at PEQ Mickleham (Australia):
- Approximately AUD 100 to 200 per animal per day
- Minimum 10 days = approximately AUD 1,000 to 2,000 per animal
- Pre-booking deposit required
Agent fee (optional but recommended):
- GBP 500 to 1,500 for a specialist pet relocation agent to manage the full process
Total estimated costs
| Pet size | Estimated total (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Cat | 3,000 to 5,500 |
| Small dog | 3,500 to 6,000 |
| Medium dog | 4,000 to 7,000 |
| Large dog | 5,000 to 9,000 |
These figures are estimates based on typical market rates. Costs vary by route, airline, and the specific services required. Get quotes from at least two or three specialist agents before committing.
Cost-saving tips
Early booking for airline cargo typically secures better rates. Routes via Singapore (Singapore Airlines Cargo) or Dubai (Emirates SkyCargo) are often competitive for UK-Australia services.
If you have two pets, check whether a combined cargo booking is cheaper than two individual bookings. Some agents offer multi-pet discounts.