UK-to-Australia pet moves are typically among the most expensive routes. No direct flights, mandatory specialist OV66 vets, a pet transport agent effectively required, and the same core government fees as any Group 3 country combine to produce total costs that regularly exceed GBP 5,000.
The honest total
Moving a dog or cat from the UK to Australia typically costs between GBP 4,000 and 10,000+, with most moves falling in the GBP 5,000-7,000 range. Large dogs, brachycephalic breeds requiring additional specialist services, or very large breeds with oversized crates can exceed GBP 10,000.
Cost by category
OV66 veterinary fees
You will need: two identity check visits with two different OV66 services (typically GBP 150-300 per visit), RNATT blood draw with an OV66 vet, ET260 RNATT declaration with a third OV66 service, and Export Health Certificate signing. Total OV66 vet fees typically range from GBP 600-1,500. For dogs also add Leishmania test (GBP 60-120), Leptospira (GBP 50-100), and Brucella if intact (GBP 50-100). Note: CIV is NOT required for dogs from the UK — confirmed by DAFF April 2026.
RNATT laboratory fee
APHA Weybridge or Biobest (Penicuik, Scotland). Confirm fees directly with the laboratory.
APHA endorsement
APHA charges for endorsement of export documentation. Confirm current fees with APHA at 03000 200 301 or pettravel@apha.gov.uk.
DAFF import permit
Approximately AUD $603 for a single animal (lodgement AUD $130 + initial assessment AUD $473). Fees reviewed annually.
Quarantine at Mickleham
10-day stay: reservation AUD $269, importation charge AUD $1,078, accommodation AUD $530 — total approximately AUD $1,877. 30-day stay significantly higher. Fees confirmed from DAFF's official published fee schedule; reviewed annually.
Flight via Dubai or Doha
No direct flights from the UK to Melbourne. Routes via Emirates (Dubai) or Qatar Airways (Doha). Freight costs depend on crate dimensions and weight. Budget GBP 1,500-4,000+ for dogs; cats typically GBP 1,000-2,500.
Agent fee
An agent is effectively mandatory for UK moves. Agent fees typically range from GBP 1,000-3,000, often including the airline freight booking. Confirm exactly what is included before engaging.
Dog vs cat costs
Cats avoid dog-specific tests (Leishmania, Brucella, Leptospira) — saving GBP 200-500 in vet fees. Cats also typically have smaller crates, reducing freight costs. Total cat move costs are typically GBP 1,000-2,000 lower than equivalent dog moves.
Regulations and fees change. Always verify current costs directly with DAFF, APHA, and your chosen agent before budgeting.