Bea, a Queensland resident, has shared a touching bond with her Quaker parrot, Rio, for the past six years. When Bea relocated to Croatia over a year ago, she brought Rio along, not wanting to part with her beloved pet. Unfortunately, strict Australian biosecurity regulations now pose a significant challenge, as the laws prevent the importation of pet birds like Rio, unlike cats and dogs, which can be imported with certain conditions.
The Australian government permits only specific bird species to be imported and solely from New Zealand by families relocating permanently. This ban, aimed at preventing diseases such as avian influenza that could harm native wildlife and the poultry industry, has been in place for nearly 30 years due to ongoing global health concerns. Despite understanding the importance of these regulations, Bea feels the current policy is unfair, especially since dogs and cats can be returned under strict controls while parrots are excluded.
Upon learning about the ban last month from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (AFF) while planning her return to Australia, Bea was disheartened. She believes, like many pet owners, that there should be safe and legal avenues for bringing beloved birds back into the country. Bea expressed her frustration regarding the differing treatment of pets, saying it’s unjust that she must potentially leave Rio behind while other pets are allowed to return.
While a scientific review of the risks associated with importing parakeets is underway, this doesn’t provide immediate relief for Bea and Rio. The emotional implications of separating from Rio, who shares a bond with Bea comparable to that of a small child, weigh heavily on her. The sensitivity of parrots, known for their strong attachment to their owners, could lead to detrimental mental and physical health effects for Rio if abandoned.
Advocacy efforts are underway, with Bea launching a petition on Change.org to advocate for the revision of the current rules, aiming to create a legal pathway for birds to be imported. She has also reached out to ministers responsible for environmental and agricultural matters in hopes of facilitating change. Despite limited progress thus far, Bea is resolute, stating she cannot fathom leaving her feathery companion behind.
Echoing the voices of many pet owners, she passionately insists that no one should be forced to choose between their home and their cherished pets, which are family members in every regard.