Illegal Exotic Animals
Your Pet, Our Pests





The illegal trade of
exotic pests threaten Victoria’s ecosystem and biosecurity. These animals are often
stolen or bred under inhumane conditions. If smuggled into Australia without appropriate
quarantine, they have the potential to carry diseases like rabies that can
spread to local wildlife, pets, and even humans.
This illegal trade prioritises profit over the well-being of the animals and the environment.
Report What You Know
If you know someone who has an illegal exotic pet or someone who is involved in the trade of illegal exotic animals, let us know.
Penalties for illegally importing, keeping, breeding, or trading exotic pests, such as the African pygmy hedgehog, can reach up to $95,000.
Fines & Penalties
Case Studies
How You Can Help
We need your help to stop the trafficking and ownership of illegal exotic pets. The illegal trade and keeping of exotic animals pose a serious threat to our native wildlife. If you have an illegal exotic pet, now is the time to surrender it — before someone reports you.
Exotic pets surrendered to businesses can contact Agriculture Victoria‘s Customer Service Centre at 136 186.
If you have any information about the illegal exotic animal trade, you can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers Victoria by calling 1800 333 000 or by submitting a report online.
The following organisations are offering a no-questions-asked policy for surrendering exotic animals.
Surrender Locations
Links & Resources
In an emergency, or if there is an immediate threat to life, call 000.