Quarantine station accommodation & fees

About our Quarantine Stations

Australia is free from a number of cat and dog diseases and has a highly favourable animal health status. In order to protect this status, cats and dogs must undertake a period of quarantine upon arrival in Australia. This quarantine period allows the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to monitor the animal's health and become aware of any disease concerns prior to the animal's release into Australia.

DAFF operates three cat and dog quarantine stations:

• Eastern Creek Quarantine Station (Sydney, New South Wales)
• Spotswood Quarantine Station (Melbourne, Victoria)
• Byford Quarantine Station (Perth, Western Australia)

Fees for government animal quarantine stations for cats and dogs.

The Animal Quarantine Station administration offices are closed on public holidays and weekends.

Warning to Importers – Heat Stress Concern

Heat stress in dogs and cats is an issue of concern in Australia. Australia experiences extremely hot summers (December–February) and temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). There is a significant risk of heat–stroke during this time, particularly for animals that are already compromised due to a medical condition, age, breed (snub–nose e.g. Pug), long/thick hair, being overweight or with a previous history of heat stress.

We strongly advise all importers to:

• discuss appropriate precautions with a veterinarian;
• arrange for animals to arrive in Australia early in the morning or later in the day (where possible and subject to normal collection times);
• ensure water will be available during the animal's flight and the travel crate has suitable ventilation; and
• clip the cat/dog's coat where appropriate, prior to arrival in Australia.

Please contact the relevant Animal Quarantine Station if you require any further information on animal accommodation, arrival times or precautionary measures.