A microchip is a permanent form of electronic identification implanted under your pet’s skin. It's about the size of a grain of rice, and does not need a battery or any maintenance. It should last for your pet’s lifetime.
The microchip number is recorded on the NSW Pet Registry along with details about you and your pet. If your four-legged pal gets lost, approved users can get in contact with you using these details.
Only vets or authorised identifiers (who have completed the relevant qualification) can microchip a cat or dog in NSW. They have an official identification number they practice under, and should be able to provide it when asked.
Who is responsible for microchipping cats and dogs in NSW
Under NSW law, whoever is selling or giving away the animal must microchip it. This applies whether they’re a professional breeder, a rehoming organisation, or a friend whose pet has had an accidental litter of puppies or kittens.
All cats and dogs must be microchipped before being sold or given away, or by 12 weeks of age.
If you buy a cat or dog in NSW that is not microchipped, please report this to your local council. They can investigate and act, if appropriate.
If those selling or giving away the animal do not microchip it by 12 weeks of age, they may be issued with a fixed penalty notice for $180 or a court may impose a maximum penalty of up to $880.
Added identification for pets
All dogs, except working dogs, must wear a collar or tag when they're outside your property. This needs to show their name and your address or phone number.
Penalties for pets not wearing an ID collar | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Description | Penalty amount |
| Dog not wearing ID collar | Owner must pay the penalty if their dog is not wearing a collar or tag showing their name and the owner's address or phone number when outside their property. Note: Working dogs are exempt. | 8 penalty units/$880 |
| Dangerous, menacing or restricted dog not wearing ID collar | Owner must pay the penalty if their dog has been declared dangerous, menacing or restricted, and is not wearing a collar or tag showing their name and the owner's address or phone number at all times. | 50 penalty units/$5,500 |