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Licences & FAQ

Some animals need a licence or permit to keep in Victoria — others don’t. Here’s a plain-language guide, plus links to the official DEECA and Victorian Government resources so you can check the current rules before you bring an animal home.

Which animals need a licence? Ask us a question

Family-owned advice Official links included

The short version

Which animals need a licence?

In Victoria, native wildlife is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. Many native birds, reptiles and amphibians need a licence to keep — while common companion pets generally don’t. The species lists change, so always confirm with DEECA before you buy.

Birds

Common pet birds like budgies, cockatiels, canaries and finches generally don’t need a licence. Some native Australian birds do — check the DEECA species lists if you’re after a native.

Rabbits & small animals

Rabbits, guinea pigs and rats are domestic pets and don’t need a wildlife licence in Victoria. (Rabbits are legal to keep here, though not in every state.)

Reptiles

Most reptiles need a private wildlife licence from DEECA. They must be captive-bred — it’s illegal to take reptiles from the wild — and bought from a licensed keeper.

Aquarium fish

Ordinary ornamental aquarium fish don’t need a licence. A few species are restricted or noxious, so ask us if you’re ever unsure about a specific fish.

Axolotls

Victoria is the only Australian state where axolotls can be kept as pets without a permit. They still have particular care needs — we’re happy to talk you through them.

Still not sure?

If you can’t tell whether the animal you want needs a licence, check the official DEECA resources below, or just ask us in store — we’ll point you the right way.

All pets must be captive-bred

It’s illegal to take native birds, reptiles or frogs from the wild in Victoria. Every animal we sell comes from a licensed breeder or keeper.

This is general guidance, not legal advice

Licence requirements change and depend on the exact species. Always confirm the current rules with DEECA before buying or keeping an animal.

Official sources

DEECA & Victorian Government resources

These are the authoritative places to check licensing, species lists and your obligations. Each link opens the official Victorian Government or DEECA website in a new tab.

Private wildlife licences →

The four types of licence for keeping wildlife at home — who needs one, fees and how to apply.

vic.gov.au

Apply for a wildlife licence →

Start or renew a wildlife licence through Service Victoria’s online portal.

service.vic.gov.au

Wildlife licences in Victoria →

An overview of the wildlife licence system, the Wildlife Act 1975 and your obligations.

vic.gov.au

Caring for pet reptiles →

Agriculture Victoria’s guidance on licensing and welfare for keeping reptiles.

agriculture.vic.gov.au

Code of practice: reptiles →

Welfare standards for privately keeping reptiles under the Wildlife Regulations 2024.

agriculture.vic.gov.au

Code of practice: amphibians →

Welfare standards for keeping amphibians, including axolotls, in captivity.

agriculture.vic.gov.au

Contact DEECA directly

For licence questions you can reach the Conservation Regulator at DEECA on 136 186, or email wildlifelicensing@deeca.vic.gov.au.

Frequently asked

Questions we hear a lot

A few quick answers — and you can always call or pop in for anything else.

Do I need a licence to keep a reptile?

In Victoria you need a private wildlife licence from DEECA to keep most reptiles. They must be captive-bred and bought from a licensed keeper — it’s illegal to take reptiles from the wild. A few species can be kept without a licence; the DEECA species lists (under the Wildlife Regulations 2024) are the place to check.

Are axolotls legal in Victoria?

Yes. Victoria is currently the only Australian state where axolotls can be kept as pets without a special permit. They do need particular care — cool, clean water and the right setup — and we’re happy to help you get it right.

Do birds, rabbits or fish need a licence?

Common pet birds (budgies, cockatiels, canaries, finches), rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and ordinary aquarium fish generally don’t need a wildlife licence in Victoria. Some native birds and a few restricted fish species are exceptions — ask us or check DEECA if you’re unsure.

Where do your animals come from?

All of our animals are captive-bred and sourced responsibly from licensed breeders and keepers. We never sell wildlife taken from the wild.

Can I buy animals online?

Live animals are sold in store, not through online checkout — it lets us match the right animal to the right home and give you proper setup advice. You’re welcome to enquire online or by phone about what’s currently available.

How do I apply for a wildlife licence?

Wildlife licences are issued by DEECA’s Conservation Regulator and you apply through the Victorian Government — see the official links above. Allow a few weeks for processing. If you’re not sure which licence you need, the “Private wildlife licences” page explains the four types.

The information on this page is a general guide only and isn’t legal advice. Licensing rules can change and depend on the exact species — always confirm current requirements with DEECA before buying or keeping an animal.

Not sure what you need?

Pop in or drop us a line — we’ll help you work out what’s involved before you bring an animal home.

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