From 1 March 2025, the policy for importing Bengal cats into Australia will change.
Following a detailed policy review, Bengal cats will be treated in the same way as all other animals imported under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). This means they will no longer be permitted to enter Australia.
Bengal cats are a hybrid of a domestic cat (Felis catus) and an Asian leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). Since 2013, exemptions have been provided to importers who could prove their Bengal cat was 5 generations away from the Asian leopard cat. It has been found that imported cross breeds under this exemption have often had a high percentage of Asian leopard cat genes. This is not consistent with the EPBC Act.
Bengal cats have not been considered for inclusion in the Live Import List. Their potential risk to the Australian environment needs to be undertaken first.
If you are looking to import a Bengal cat, you may be eligible to apply for an exemption before 5 pm 28 February 2025. You may also apply to have a Bengal cat, or any hybrid, assessed for inclusion in the Live Import List.
The EPBC Act serves to protect Australia's nationally and internationally important plants, animals, habitats and places. Through our nature positive work, we are seeking to reduce environmental decline, so nature can thrive.
