Quarantine station accommodation & fees

About our Quarantine stations

Australia has a highly favourable animal health status and is free from a number of cat and dog diseases. In order to protect this status, cats and dogs must undertake a period of quarantine on arrival. 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 animal quarantine stations that are equipped to accommodate cats and dogs. Information about each individual quarantine station can be viewed below:

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

For information on accommodation fees go to: Fees for government animal quarantine stations for cats and dogs.

Please note that the following dates are Australian Public Holidays during Easter 2012:

Good Friday               Friday 6 April 2012
Easter Monday           Monday 9 April 2012
ANZAC Day                Wednesday 25 April 2012

• The Animal Quarantine Station administration offices are closed on public holidays and weekends.
• DAFF will not pick up animals from the airport on weekends or public holidays.
• Animals cannot be visited on weekends or public holidays.
• Please refer to the individual quarantine station webpage for further information on weekend and public holiday collection hours.
  

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 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.

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