Import or export wildlife

In the Northern Territory (NT) you need a permit to import or export prohibited and protected wildlife.

Before you apply

Make sure you leave 5 working days for your application to be approved.

You must get a permit before the wildlife is imported or exported.

You must get approval from the state or territory the animal is leaving or going to. See below for state and territory permit information.

There are strict guidelines for the transport of animals by air or by road.

You must contact your transport company before departure to find out the type of container and other considerations - such as food, water and toileting - needed to transport your animal.

How to apply

To apply, follow these steps.

Step 1. Fill in the application for a permit to import or export wildlife.

Application for a permit to import or export wildlife DOCX (66.8 KB)
Application for a permit to import or export wildlife PDF (219.3 KB)

Step 2. Submit your application to the permits and concessions office within Parks and Wildlife.

How long your permit is valid for

An import permit is valid for one month from the date of shipment. The animal must enter the NT in this time or you will need another permit.

An export permit is valid for 2 days from the date of shipment. The animal must leave the NT in this time or you will need another permit.

Import or export permits for states and territories

For import or export permit information for other Australian states and territories, go to the following websites:

• Government of South Australia's Department for Environment and Water website
• Government of Western Australia's Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions website
• New South Wales Government's Service NSW website
• Victorian Government website
• ACT Government's Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate website
• Tasmania Government's Department of Natural Resources and Environment website
• Queensland Government website.

There are biosecurity rules if you are moving certain species of animals and livestock into the NT.

Read moving and exporting livestock for more information.