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Australia may have one of the highest pet ownership rates in the world, but you’re unlikely to encounter many of those 28.7 million animal friends on the nation’s public transportation systems.
That’s because rules surrounding pets on public transport remain prohibitive, with basic exceptions made for assistance animals and a few special cases.
What are the current rules in each state?
Across all states and territories, access to public transport remains limited mostly to assistance animals.
When it comes to pets, however, the rules are often vague and inconsistent. In many cases, the ability to travel on buses, trains, ferries and taxis is often left to the discretion of the driver and crew members.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current rules and special exceptions across Australia:
Accredited assistance animals are allowed on NSW public transport, and pets may be allowed on buses, ferries, light rail and point-to-point vehicles if confined to a carrier and with staff permission. Animals are prohibited from travelling in Sydney and regional train services and stations.
Dogs and small animals are conditionally permitted to travel on the Public Transport Victoria network. For regional travel on the V/Line network, small animals are permitted on trains if they’re in a suitable container but are not allowed on coaches. Accredited assistance animals can travel for free with an Assistance Animal Pass.)
Although approved assistance animals can travel for free, pets are not permitted on Translink bus, train and tram services across Queensland. The exception is the allowance of dogs on Brisbane River ferries and CityCats, although conditions apply.
Trained and approved assistance animals may travel on Transperth services free of charge, but no other animals are allowed.
Accredited assistance animals or those in training to assist people with a disability can travel for free via Adelaide Metro. Owners must carry accreditation information, and animals must meet the service’s hygiene and behavioural standards. All other animals are prohibited.
Only approved guide or assistance animals are allowed on Tasmanian public transport vehicles, in the interest of public comfort and safety.
In the ACT, assistance animals may travel free on all buses and light rail services. This includes guide dogs, animals in training to assist people with a disability and, with the driver’s permission, pets confined to a carrier.
Time for a change?
Advocacy for the relaxation of these rules to allow pets to travel freely on public transport has grown over the years. Since 2024, Pet Circle’s reform ‘Pawtition’ has accrued over 24,000 signatures in favour of further progress. Another high-profile champion of the cause is Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore, who wants to match the progressive policies of international cities such as Paris and London.
Some moves in this direction have been made in recent times. Assistance dogs were involved in testing the accessibility of Sydney’s new Metro City line, Australia’s only fully accessible railway.
Also in Sydney, leading expert on pets and public transport Dr Jennifer Kent argued the state’s prohibition is archaic. In an interview with SBS, Dr Kent said the benefits of relaxing these rules are clear.
“There is research that proves societies where there are more dogs out in public have a better sense of belonging, less experience of loneliness and better community fabric. So it’s a good thing to have our dogs out there.”
Why allow pets on public transport?
- Emotional support: Pets are often a source of emotional support and companionship for pet parents; the presence of a pet can help reduce feelings of anxiety or stress for pet parents as well as other passengers.
- Greater access to veterinary services: Not all pet parents are able to drive or access private vehicles. Allowing pets on public transport means easier access to veterinary services. This could also encourage more regular vet visits, ensuring the timely detection of potential health issues.
- Lower carbon paw-print: Public transport means fewer cars on the road, decreasing traffic congestion and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Inclusivity: Pet-friendly public transport supports greater inclusivity, accommodating individuals with disabilities or medical conditions that require them to travel with service animals.
In April 2023, PetSure asked* 1,000 pet owners which places pets should be allowed for the purpose of providing an emotional benefit to people; almost half of respondents chose public transport.
A four-legged future?
PetSure’s position is that restrictions on pets accessing existing public infrastructure create barriers, particularly for disadvantaged and vulnerable pet parents.
To facilitate pet-friendly public transport, each state and territory government must design and enforce comprehensive guidelines that ensure the safety of all passengers. This may include rules or legislation to manage potential issues such as allergic reactions, noise, phobias and cleanliness.
Allowing pets on public transport is about more than convenience. It’s about creating an environment that’s inclusive and reflective of social changes and the needs of all Australians and their pets.
*PetSure surveyed 1,000 dog and cat owners nationwide across Australia from 14 to 17 April 2023. Research supplied by PureProfile.
Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected happens. Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Check out our partner network and explore our policy tools to find a pet insurance policy.
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