It’s a simple question, but one without a straightforward answer.

Here are some of the rules according to each state.

• According to the Transport ACT website, companion animals are allowed to travel on light rail vehicles as long as they are contained in a secure pet carrier and can be transported without disrupting other passengers. Assistance animals are allowed on buses and light rail vehicles.

• Companion animals in NSW may be allowed to travel on buses, ferries, light rail and in a taxi (conditions apply) as required by the NSW Passenger Transport Act and regulations. However, permission is still required by staff or the driver. On the Sydney Ferry dogs may travel on the outside deck with the permission of staff and not during peak times.

• In the Northern Territory hearing, guide or assistance dogs are only allowed on buses. All other animals are prohibited.

• Tassielink Transit passengers are asked to call 1300 300 520 to enquire about transporting pets. The Spirit of Tasmania Ferry allows dogs, however, they are required to travel in the provided kennel on a ventilated deck during sailing access to the kennels is not permitted. There have been mixed reviews about this service for pets.

• Companion animals are not allowed on any services in Queensland, however, there are some exceptions such as assistance and guide dogs. The ‘Dogs on Ferries’ trial started in 2019 and allows pet dogs on the Brisbane ferries including CityCats – conditions apply.

• In South Australia assistance animals can accompany a person with a disability on all forms of public transport. Read more here: https://www.sa.gov.au/

• In Western Australia, if you have a certified assistance dog you are able to travel on any Transperth service. However, no other animals are allowed on any of their services or facilities.

• Victorians can bring pets on public transport – but conditions apply. Dogs are allowed on metropolitan trains, if they are leashed and muzzled. Assistance dogs can travel for free on public transport. You can bring pets on V/Line trains in a container but again conditions apply. Searoad Ferries is the pet-friendly car and passenger ferry service between Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula and Queenscliff on the Bellarine. Dogs can travel in vehicles or with foot passengers. They must be on a leash at all times and permitted on the outside deck only.

• Uber Pet allows furry friends in the following cities Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Hobart, Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Geelong, Wollongong and Darwin

Author Bio

Carla Francis is the internationally recognised author behind the 5th edition guidebook and blog, ‘Travelling with Pets.’ Carla has made significant contributions to newspapers and magazines, as a staff writer for major pet food companies, she is also the in-house pet travel expert for PetsForever app, and her latest book, The Cat with Three Passports, was an Award-Winning Finalist at the 2021 International Book Awards.

Check out these related posts:

• How to get cats used to travelling
• Travelling with pets at Christmas
• Can I holiday with my cat?

To ask our pet expert your question, please download our free PetsForever app and post it in Q&A.

If you wish to become our expert or ethical partner, please send an email to admin@petsforever.io

Disclaimer:

The information we offer is educational in nature and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis or treatment. Our recommendation is to always do your research.

Please see our Terms & Conditions