The following article supplied by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) was published in the November 2025 edition of Vetboard Victoria's newsletter. The content was current at the time of publication but there may have been changes since then, as rules, standards and professional and community expectations change over time. Readers are also referred to our
Guidelines for appropriate standards of veterinary practice and veterinary facilities.
Preparing companion animals for export
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) works towards a more sustainable Australia through biosecurity, agricultural production and trade.
As part of this work, DAFF regulates the import and export of live animals in Australia. These functions were historically exercised by the former Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS).
All registered veterinarians can prepare animals for export (excluding livestock*) without requiring accreditation. This includes dogs, cats, mice, poultry and horses.
As a registered veterinarian, you may prepare animals for export. This includes the testing, treatment and examinations required by the importing country and under DAFF’s regulatory framework.
You must understand and meet your obligations under Australia’s export laws and certification system. DAFF’s export certification system assures:
- compliance with importing country requirements
- Australia’s reputation as a trading nation
- the health and welfare of exported animals.
Please be aware that the export preparation process can be complex. A consignment may be detained, delayed or rejected on arrival if not compliant with the regulatory framework and importing country requirements. Rejected consignments may not be able to be returned to Australia and euthanasia may be the only option.
Information for veterinarians about preparing animals for export is available at: Veterinarians preparing companion animals for export > Importing country requirements
Forms for veterinarians preparing animals for export are available at: Veterinarians preparing companion animals for export > Forms for registered veterinarians
We also draw your attention to Vetboard Victoria's Guideline 19 on veterinary certificates.
If you are a registered veterinary practitioner in Victoria and have questions on the live animal export process, please contact the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry at [email protected]
*Only accredited veterinarians can prepare livestock for export. Livestock animals include cattle, sheep, goats, buffalo, deer and camelids. If you want to prepare livestock for export, find out how to become an accredited veterinarian.