Pet Policy Overview
Qantas, Australia's flag carrier, does not permit any pets in the cabin or as checked baggage on international flights. All international pet transport to and from Australia must be handled as manifest cargo through Qantas Freight or an approved freight agent. For domestic Australian flights, pets can travel as checked baggage on select routes. This distinction is important: Australia's biosecurity laws require ALL pets to arrive as manifest cargo through Melbourne International Airport and undergo mandatory quarantine at the Mickleham PEQ Facility — regardless of the airline used.
Key Details
Pet Fee
From AUD $395 (domestic) / Varies (international via Qantas Freight)
Pro Tip
For international pet transport, you will almost certainly need a licensed pet transport agent. Qantas Freight works with several approved agents who specialise in Australian pet imports and exports. Dogtainers and Jetpets are among the best-known Australian pet transport companies. Budget AUD $3,000–$8,000+ for an international pet import to Australia including agent fees, quarantine, and permits.
Restrictions
No cabin pets. No international checked baggage pets. International pet transport is exclusively via Qantas Freight (manifest cargo). Brachycephalic breeds are subject to seasonal restrictions. Pets cannot travel on flights where cargo hold temperature cannot be guaranteed. Australia bans the import of cats from many countries (including Thailand, China, Indonesia) and Bengal cats are effectively banned since March 2025. Domestic checked baggage pets are limited to select routes and aircraft.