PETS DELIVERY EXPERT
Australia opens consultation on assistance-animal import reform
The consultation opened October 7 and closes November 4 at 5 p.m. AEDT. It concerns assistance cats and dogs; the consultation itself does not change entry rules.
- Consultation opened
- Published
- Sources checked
A consultation, not a new entry permission
Current status: feedback invited
No new import entitlement or quarantine exemption has been announced through this consultation. Continue planning against the requirements that currently apply.
Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry opened consultation on October 7, 2026 about the import pathway for assistance cats and dogs. It is seeking views on clearer requirements, simpler permit applications and more accessible processes while protecting biosecurity.
Who can contribute, and by when?
The official consultation invites feedback from people with disability, assistance-animal organisations and others involved in the pathway. Submissions close on November 4, 2026 at 5 p.m. AEDT.
A further consultation on proposed changes is expected in December. That is a planned consultation step, rather than a confirmed date for new rules to begin.
What this means for a planned move
For travel already taking shape, keep the preparation schedule tied to current permissions and written advice for the individual case. Treat the reform process as something to monitor, rather than a reason to skip an existing step.
If you contribute feedback, separate the obstacles you experienced from changes you would like to see. The official consultation page below explains how to participate. For practical route planning, contact our team.
Read the official sources
Sources checked . Requirements can change. Confirm the instructions for your departure country and travel date with the relevant authority.
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