Live animals on board (including pets)

The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) is responsible for managing the risks associated with the introduction of exotic pests and diseases entering Australia.

Many diseases are transmittable through animals, so strict laws are in place on all international vessels in Australian waters.

The term 'animals' includes fish, birds and reptiles. A ship's pet may be any type of animal except for ruminants (such as goats and cattle), fowl (including chickens and pigeons) or rodents of any kind.

What is the risk to Australia?

Animals on board vessels that have recently visited overseas countries may have come in contact with other animals carrying exotic pests and diseases, such as African swine fever, screw worm fly, rabies, Newcastle disease and foot and mouth disease.

To manage these risks, AQIS applies stringent quarantine clearance procedures.

When a vessel arrives in an Australian port, it is boarded by an AQIS officer and a routine inspection is conducted. This includes specific directions relating to the management of any pets onboard.

Failure to comply with directions issued by the AQIS officer, or the prescribed conditions relating to the control or confinement of an animal, may result in the animal being destroyed by an approved veterinarian and prosecution of the Master.

AQIS requirements—what you need to do

• Use the pratique, Quarantine Pre-Arrival Report (QPAR) for Vessels form to provide the number and description of all animals on board the vessel 12–96 hours before arrival.
• Comply with all directions issued by the AQIS officer on the Reporting Requirements for Animals on Vessels form.
• Confine all animals indoors as directed by the AQIS officer.
• Dispose of all animal waste under quarantine control, or in a manner approved by AQIS.
• All yachts must be kept at a safe mid water mooring or anchorage at all times.
• Provide 48 hours notice of any intended change of moorings, anchorage or departure from any Australian port and an estimated time of arrival to the next port of call.
• Immediately notify AQIS if any animal on board becomes ill, dies or escapes, on 1800 020 504.

More information

Website
Phone: 1800 020 504 (free call in Australia)
Email