Relocating to Adelaide, Australia, with your beloved pet can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Adelaide, known for its stunning parks, pet-friendly beaches, and welcoming community, is an ideal city for pet owners looking to start a new chapter. However, Australia has some of the strictest biosecurity regulations in the world, designed to protect the country’s unique ecosystem. To ensure a smooth and compliant relocation process, it’s essential to follow the steps carefully.

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The Steps

Step 1: Research and Prepare Early

When planning your move to Adelaide with your pet, early preparation is crucial. Australia’s biosecurity laws are some of the strictest globally, and Adelaide follows these regulations rigorously. It is recommended that you begin the process at least nine months before your planned move to allow ample time to meet all requirements

  • Speak to a vet: Consult your veterinarian for advice on the required vaccinations and tests.
  • Choose a pet transport service: Working with a professional pet relocation service like PetAir UK can help streamline the process and avoid complications.

Step 2: Understand the Australian Quarantine Requirements

All pets entering Australia, including those headed to Adelaide, must undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival. The quarantine period typically lasts between 10 and 30 days, depending on compliance with regulations.

  • If all steps are followed correctly, your pet may only need to stay in quarantine for 10 days.
  • Using a professional service like PetAir UK ensures that all documentation is in order, helping to minimize the quarantine period.

Step 3: Vaccination Requirements

Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies and pass a Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) to enter Australia. Here’s what to expect:

  • Rabies vaccination: Ensure your pet is vaccinated against rabies at least 3-4 weeks before the RNATT.
  • RNATT: After the vaccination, your pet must undergo the RNATT to confirm they have developed sufficient antibodies against rabies. Pets cannot enter Australia until 180 days after the lab receives the blood sample and the results are satisfactory.

Once your pet has passed their RNATT, it’s important to begin coordinating the next steps to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. This is where contacting us at PetAir UK can make a big difference in guiding you and your vet through the process.

Step 4: Identification Check for 10-Day Quarantine Eligibility

From 4 November 2024, pets will need to undergo an identity check to be eligible for the shorter 10-day quarantine period.

  • The identity verification must occur before blood sampling for the RNATT. If the RNATT is conducted prior to the ID check, it will become invalid, and the 180-day waiting period will restart once the new blood sample is received by the testing lab.
  • The ID check is a complex process that requires two OV66-authorized veterinarians to complete. If done correctly, your pet will be eligible for the 10-day quarantine.

The earliest date a pet can be exported to Australia under the new identity check system will be 3 May 2025. PetAir UK can help you navigate this process to ensure your pet is eligible for the shorter quarantine period.

Step 5: Booking Quarantine Accommodation

Since there is only one central quarantine facility in Australia, located in Melbourne, spaces can fill up quickly. Once your pet’s import permit has been issued, PetAir UK will help you book their quarantine stay to secure your ideal date.

  • Quarantine booking should be done as early as possible after receiving the import permit to avoid delays in your pet’s relocation.

Step 6: Veterinary Treatments & Additional Blood Tests

Australia has strict veterinary and testing requirements to protect its ecosystem. Prior to your pet’s departure, they will need to undergo additional veterinary treatments and blood tests to meet import regulations.

  • PetAir UK will work with your chosen veterinary practice to ensure all required tests and treatments are completed according to the Australian government’s import standards.
  • We can also include your vet’s costs in our service package, so you won’t have to worry about additional fees at your vet appointments.

Step 7: Arrival in Australia

Upon arrival at Melbourne airport, your pet will be met by the Mickleham Quarantine Facility staff. The following steps will take place:

  • Clearance procedures: After landing, your pet will go through biosecurity clearance before being transferred to the quarantine facility.
  • Monitoring: While in quarantine, your pet’s health and well-being will be closely monitored by the facility’s staff to ensure compliance with Australia’s biosecurity requirements.
  • Updates: You will receive regular updates on your pet’s condition during their stay.

If any health issues arise, they will be addressed promptly by the quarantine staff, and you will be informed immediately.

Step 8: Arranging Transportation from Quarantine to Adelaide

Once your pet has completed the quarantine period, you will need to arrange for their onward transportation to Adelaide. PetAir UK works with a trusted agent in Australia to organize this final leg of the journey.

  • Pets will be collected early on their release day and placed on the soonest available flight to Adelaide, allowing you to reunite with them as quickly as possible.

Step 9: Enjoy Life with Your Pet in Adelaide!

Once your pet has safely arrived in Adelaide, it’s time to start enjoying life in your new city together. Adelaide offers a range of pet-friendly parks, beaches, and activities that make it a great place for pets and their owners.

By following these steps and working with PetAir UK, you can ensure that your pet’s relocation to Adelaide is as smooth and stress-free as possible. The process may be complex, but with early planning and the right support, you’ll soon be enjoying your new life in Australia with your beloved pet by your side.

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