How to Travel Interstate with Your Dog in Australia: The Complete Safety Guide

Travelling interstate with your dog in Australia is more common than ever — whether you're relocating, going on a road trip, or visiting family. But it requires planning. This guide covers what you need to know to travel safely and legally with your dog across Australian state borders.

Can You Travel Interstate with a Dog in Australia?

Yes — but rules vary by state and territory, and some states have specific requirements around certain breeds, health certificates, and biosecurity. Always check the requirements for your destination state before you travel.

Interstate Travel Rules by State

New South Wales

No specific entry requirements for domestic dogs travelling from other Australian states, but your dog must be microchipped and registered. Restricted breeds must comply with NSW dangerous dog laws.

Victoria

Dogs must be microchipped and registered. Restricted breeds require additional documentation. No general health certificate required for interstate travel.

Queensland

Queensland has biosecurity requirements for some animals. Domestic dogs from other Australian states generally don't require a health certificate, but it's worth checking with Biosecurity Queensland if you're travelling with multiple dogs or specific breeds.

Western Australia

WA has stricter biosecurity rules. Dogs entering WA may require a health declaration. Check the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website before travel.

South Australia

No specific entry requirements for domestic dogs from other Australian states. Microchipping and registration required.

Tasmania

Tasmania has some of the strictest biosecurity rules in Australia. Check Biosecurity Tasmania's website for current entry requirements before you book.

Travelling by Car with Your Dog

Restraint Laws

In most Australian states, dogs must be restrained while travelling in a vehicle. An unrestrained dog in a moving vehicle can be a distraction and a danger. Use a crash-tested harness, a secured crate, or a dog barrier in the boot.

Rest Stops

Plan rest stops every 2–3 hours. Dogs need to stretch, toilet, and drink water. Never leave your dog in a parked car in Australian heat — temperatures inside a car can reach dangerous levels within minutes.

Water and Food

Bring more water than you think you'll need. Feed your dog a light meal a few hours before travel to reduce the risk of car sickness. Avoid feeding in the car if your dog is prone to motion sickness.

Travelling by Plane with Your Dog

Most Australian airlines carry dogs as checked baggage or cargo rather than in the cabin (assistance dogs aside). Requirements vary by airline:

• Your dog must travel in an airline-approved crate
• Some airlines ask for a vet health check
• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs may be restricted on some airlines due to breathing risks
• Book early — space for pets is limited

Accommodation: Finding Dog-Friendly Stays

Dog-friendly accommodation in Australia has grown significantly. Use platforms like Stayz, Airbnb (filter for pets allowed), and BringFido to find suitable stays. Always confirm pet policies directly with the property before booking.

Keeping Your Dog Safe During Travel

Update Your Microchip Details

Before any trip, log in to your microchip registry and confirm your contact details are current. If your dog gets lost interstate, this is how they'll find you.

Use an AirTag Holder

Travelling to an unfamiliar area increases the risk of your dog getting lost. An AirTag in a waterproof holder on their collar lets you see where your dog was last detected in the Find My app, in any state, wherever other Apple devices are nearby. It's strongest in towns and busy areas, weaker in remote country.

Carry a Recent Photo

Have a clear, recent photo of your dog on your phone. If they go missing in an unfamiliar area, you'll need it for lost dog posts and local shelter reports immediately.

Research Local Vets

Before you travel, identify the nearest emergency vet at your destination. Save the address and phone number in your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a health certificate to travel interstate with my dog in Australia?

It depends on your destination. Tasmania and Western Australia have the strictest rules. Most other states don't require one for domestic dogs, but always check current requirements with the state biosecurity agency before travel.

Can my dog sit in the front seat of the car?

Laws vary by state, but in most Australian states, dogs must be restrained and are not permitted to sit on a driver's lap. A secured harness or crate in the back seat or boot is the safest option.

What should I do if my dog gets lost interstate?

Contact local council animal management, nearby vets and shelters, and post on local Facebook community groups immediately. Use your AirTag's last detected location to narrow the search, and report to police if theft is suspected.

The Bottom Line

Travelling interstate with your dog in Australia is absolutely doable with the right preparation. Check state-specific requirements, keep your dog restrained and hydrated, and make sure they're microchipped, tagged, and wearing a waterproof AirTag holder before you hit the road (AirTag sold separately).