Changes

Ehrlichia canis has been detected in Australia and is now considered to be established. Because of this, the department has reviewed the import conditions for dogs from approved countries and has made the following changes to import conditions:

1. The requirement for pre-export Ehrlichia canis serological testing will be removed for all dogs, including assistance dogs and active Australian defence and police dogs.
2. Pre-export Ehrlichia canis serological testing will be added to the import conditions for the movement of dogs from the Australian mainland to Norfolk, Christmas and Cocos Islands.
3. Pre-export Ehrlichia canis serological testing will be added to the import conditions for Australian origin dogs being exported from New Zealand to Norfolk Island.

The requirement for dogs to undergo pre-export veterinary examination and treatment for external parasites will remain. These import conditions contribute to the biosecurity risk management for a number of other diseases of biosecurity concern.

All other import conditions remain in place.

Who does this notice affect:
Importers of live dogs and associated stakeholders, including pet transport agents and official and government-approved veterinarians.

Additional information:
Please contact the department on 1800 900 090 or via email at imports@agriculture.gov.au.