Bringing a Dog to Australia Step-by-Step

Step 1: Microchip your dog (before vaccination)

The first step is getting an ISO-standard microchip implanted into your dog. This must happen before the rabies vaccination because every later check (at the vet, at the port, at quarantine) will scan the microchip to confirm identity. If the microchip isn't already in place when you vaccinate, the vaccine record won't match the chip, and you'll have to restart the process.

Ask your local vet to implant the microchip and record the unique number. You'll need this number for every subsequent step, including the BICON import permit application and the health certificate.

Step 2: Rabies vaccination

After the microchip is in, your vet will give your dog a rabies vaccination. This must be done at least 30 days before the RNATT blood test (though many vets recommend waiting a few weeks longer to allow antibodies to build up). Your vet will record the vaccine batch number and date—you'll need both for the BICON permit.

Check with your vet that the vaccine is approved for export to Australia. Most standard rabies vaccines in Group 3 countries are, but don't assume.

Step 3: RNATT blood test and the 180-day waiting period

The RNATT is the rabies neutralising antibody titre test, a blood test that confirms your dog has sufficient rabies antibodies to be safe. Your vet will take a blood sample, send it to an approved laboratory, and wait for the result.

This is where time is critical. The 180-day waiting period begins on the date the lab receives the sample, not the date your dog was tested. Your dog cannot travel to Australia until at least 180 days have passed from that lab-receipt date. If the test fails (antibody levels too low), your dog must be revaccinated and tested again, adding another 180 days. Most dogs pass, but allow for this possibility in your timeline.

This is why you must start the process at least 6–7 months before your intended travel date.

Step 4: Apply for the BICON import permit

While you're waiting for the 180-day period, apply for the BICON (Biosecurity Import Conditions) import permit through DAFF. You'll need:

- Your dog's microchip number
- Rabies vaccine batch number and date
- RNATT test result (once it arrives)
- Your dog's breed and a description
- Your contact details and intended point of entry in Australia (likely Melbourne, where quarantine is located)

BICON processing can take several weeks, so apply as soon as you have the rabies vaccination and microchip information. The permit is a formal document that you carry with your dog; without it, your dog won't be allowed to enter.

Step 5: Pre-export veterinary treatments and health certificate

In the weeks before travel (check DAFF timelines—usually within 10 days), your vet will perform additional checks and treatments:

- Internal parasite treatment (deworming)
- External parasite treatment (flea and tick)
- A final health examination
- An official government-endorsed veterinary health certificate specific to Australia (this is different from a standard health certificate; ask your vet to provide the Australia-specific form)

The health certificate must be signed by a government-licensed vet and include your dog's microchip number, vaccination records, and parasite treatments. Keep the original—you'll need it at quarantine.

Step 6: Book quarantine at Mickleham

Before you buy your plane ticket, contact the Mickleham post-entry quarantine facility in Victoria and book a quarantine space for your intended arrival date. Mickleham has limited capacity, and places fill up, especially during peak moving seasons. You'll need:

- Your dog's name and age
- Microchip number
- Your BICON permit number
- Your intended arrival date and port of entry

Book at least 2–3 months in advance if possible.

Step 7: Arrange flights and an IATA-compliant crate

International airlines require dogs to travel in an IATA-compliant crate (a reinforced, well-ventilated airline-approved cage). Buy or rent one that fits your dog's size with a bit of room. Add your contact details and your dog's details to the outside of the crate in case it's separated from you.

Book your flights and notify the airline in advance that you're traveling with a dog. Most international airlines charge a fee (often $300–800 one way) for an animal in the cabin or cargo hold. Confirm your airline's specific pet policies and crate requirements; they vary.

Step 8: Travel and quarantine

When you land in Australia (most likely Melbourne), your dog goes straight to Mickleham for the mandatory 10-day quarantine. You can visit during designated hours, but your dog stays at the facility. Mickleham staff conduct health checks, monitor for any signs of illness, and ensure your dog is eating and adapting well.

On day 10, if all health checks are clear, your dog is released to you. You'll receive a clearance certificate from Mickleham confirming the quarantine is complete.

Timeline summary

- Months 1–2: Microchip, rabies vaccination, apply for BICON permit, book quarantine
- Months 2–3: Wait for RNATT test result; 180-day waiting period begins
- Months 4–6: Wait out the 180-day period
- Month 6–7: Final vet checks, health certificate, book flights
- Month 7: Travel and quarantine

Starting the process 6–7 months before your intended travel date gives you a comfortable buffer for delays (failed tests, permit processing time, quarantine booking delays). Rushing the timeline is risky.

Common mistakes to avoid

Starting too late. The 180-day waiting period is fixed and cannot be skipped. If you start just 4 months before you want to move, your dog won't be eligible to travel.

Microchipping after vaccination. Always microchip first, then vaccinate. If you do it the other way around, the records won't match, and you'll have to restart.

Assuming your country is approved. DAFF maintains a specific list of approved countries. If yours isn't on it, your dog cannot enter Australia directly. Check the official DAFF list before making any plans.

Skipping the health certificate. A standard vet health certificate from your home country is not sufficient for Australia. You need the specific government-endorsed Australia export health certificate. Ask your vet explicitly for this form.

Verify all requirements before moving

Biosecurity rules change, and timelines can shift. Before you book your flights, visit the DAFF website and confirm all current requirements, timelines, and fees. Call Mickleham to confirm quarantine availability for your intended arrival date. Check with your airline about their pet travel policies and crate specifications. Being thorough now saves you from costly surprises later.

Can I bring my dog from a non-approved country?

No. If your country is not on DAFF's approved list, you cannot bring your dog directly to Australia. Your only option is to move your dog to an approved country first, have it live there for 6 months, complete all the steps from that approved country, and then travel to Australia.

What if my RNATT test fails?

If the blood test shows insufficient rabies antibodies, your dog must be revaccinated and tested again. The 180-day waiting period resets from the new lab-receipt date. This adds months to your timeline. Most dogs pass, but budget for this possibility.

Do I have to use a professional pet-transport company?

No, it's optional. You can arrange microchipping, vaccinations, testing, permits, flights, and quarantine booking yourself. Many people do successfully. Professional companies handle logistics but add $2,000–5,000+ to the cost.

Can my dog avoid quarantine?

No. Every dog from a Group 2 or Group 3 country must complete a minimum 10-day quarantine at Mickleham. Group 1 (New Zealand, Norfolk Island, Cocos Islands) is exempt from quarantine. There are no exceptions for any other approved country.

How long can I visit my dog during quarantine?

Mickleham allows visits during designated hours. Ask when you book. Your dog stays at the facility for the full 10 days, but you can see it regularly.

What happens if my dog fails a health check at quarantine?

If any illness is detected during the quarantine stay, Mickleham will treat it and extend your dog's stay until it's cleared. Additional vet treatment costs are your responsibility. Prolonged quarantine stays are rare if pre-export health checks were thorough.