Pet cats (live) → Australia

Cats may only enter Australia from approved countries and must undergo mandatory quarantine of at least 10 days.

Details

Australia's Biosecurity Act 2015 and DAFF import conditions impose among the world's strictest pet import rules. Cats must come from an approved country (e.g. UK, US, NZ), have a microchip, up-to-date rabies vaccination, rabies titre test (blood test) at least 180 days before arrival, internal/external parasite treatments, and an import permit issued by DAFF. Cats arriving from non-approved countries face additional conditions or may not be eligible. A mandatory quarantine period of minimum 10 days is served at the Mickleham facility in Victoria at the owner's expense.

Quantity limit

Maximum 2 cats per import permit for personal travel

Documentation required

• Import permit (DAFF)
• ISO microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination records
• Rabies neutralising antibody titre test (FAVN/RFFIT) result
• Parasite treatment certificates
• Veterinary health certificate

Legal reference

Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth); Biosecurity (Cat and Dog) Determination 2016

Practical advice

Start the process at least 6 months before travel — the titre test must be done 180+ days before arrival. Apply for the import permit through DAFF well in advance and book quarantine accommodation early as spaces are limited.

Customs authority

Australian Border Force (ABF) · https://www.abf.gov.au