If you’re planning a move to Australia with your pet, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is how transport works. Our complete guide to pet relocation to Australia explains the full process, requirements, and timeline before diving into the transport details below.
Australia has some of the strictest animal import rules in the world. That means transporting a dog or cat isn’t as simple as booking a flight. There’s a structured process involving veterinary steps, USDA paperwork, airline coordination, and mandatory quarantine in Melbourne.
This guide walks you through the real process of transporting a pet from the United States to Australia, what to expect at each stage, and how airlines handle these moves.
International pet transport to Australia typically takes 6–7 months of preparation before your pet boards a flight. The process includes:
Because flights to Australia must be booked through an approved pet transport provider, most families work with a professional relocation company to manage the timeline and paperwork.
Australia requires advance planning due to rabies testing timelines and government approvals. Most families begin preparing 6–7 months before departure.
You’ll first confirm:
If you’re still estimating budget, see our guide on cost of bringing a dog to Australia, which breaks down what impacts pricing.
Australia requires a rabies antibody (titer) test for pets traveling from the United States. This must be completed at least 180 days before travel.
During this stage, your veterinarian will:
Missing a step can delay travel by months, which is why many families use a relocation specialist to coordinate the schedule.
Before your pet can travel, an Australian import permit must be approved. This confirms that all veterinary requirements have been met and reserves a space in quarantine.
Permit processing can take several weeks and must align with your planned travel window.
Pets traveling internationally to Australia must fly as manifest cargo, not in-cabin or as excess baggage.
Flights typically route through major U.S. gateway airports such as:
From there, pets fly into Melbourne, where Australia’s primary quarantine facility is located.
Airline options change frequently based on routing, aircraft type, and seasonal temperature restrictions. Common carriers include:
Flights are booked based on:
Because space is limited, booking typically happens weeks to months in advance.
Your pet must travel in an IATA-compliant travel crate sized correctly for international cargo transport.
Before departure:
Most pets travel safely and comfortably when properly prepared.
All pets entering Australia from the United States must complete quarantine at the Mickleham facility in Melbourne.
Quarantine typically lasts:
During this time:
For a full breakdown, see our guide on Australia pet quarantine requirements.
From the first vet visit to final pickup in Australia, most relocations take:
6–7 months total preparation
1–2 days of travel
10 days quarantine
If you’re planning around a job relocation or visa timeline, it’s best to start early to avoid delays.
Technically, yes — but most families choose professional help because:
Working with a relocation specialist helps ensure everything aligns with Australia’s requirements and reduces stress during an already busy move.
Transporting a pet from the USA to Australia is a detailed process, but with proper planning, it’s very achievable. Thousands of families relocate pets successfully each year.
If you’re starting to plan your move, the best first step is understanding your timeline and requirements.
Need help planning your pet’s move to Australia?
Contact Starwood Pet Travel to discuss your timeline, route, and next steps.