Procedures for Importing Pets
Dogs and cats can only be imported into Australia with prior approval. A Permit to Import must be applied for with the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. You will not require a permit to import a cat or dog from New Zealand, although conditions apply.
Prohibited Dog Breeds
The following dog breeds are prohibited in Australia:
- Dogo Argentino (Argentinean Mastiff)
- Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
- Japanese Tosa
- American Pit Bull Terrier and Pit Bull terrier breeds
- Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario
- Any dog of a mixed breed that visibly contains any of these breeds or a domestic/non-domestic hybrid (e.g. dog-wolf crosses)
Pets in Australia
Legislation covering retention of animals as domestic pets has been subject to many changes in recent years. Many different restrictions apply, some of which are State Government Legislation. It is advisable to check with your local council on restrictions relating to animals in the area.
If renting an apartment or unit, there is likely to be an owners corporation that manages common areas such as gardens, driveways and foyers. An owner’s corporation may have its own rules about pets, which tenants and residents must abide by. Landlords or owners should give new tenants or residents a copy of the owner’s corporation rules at the start of their tenancy.
