Keeping native animals

What animals can I keep?

Information about what animals you can keep, required licences and exemptions.

Licences to keep, use or display native animals

In Queensland, you need a licence to keep, use and display protected native animals. Find out your requirements and which licence you will need.

Your responsibilities

Your responsibilities as a Native animal keeper licence holder.

What animals don’t need a licence

Find out which animals are considered exempt species and can be kept without a licence.

How to apply for a Native Animal Keeping Licence

Information about how to apply for a native animal keeping licence.

Wildlife permit assessment changes

From 27 March 2025, the following protected animal permit types will undergo a manual assessment process. This includes: Standard Rehabilitation Permits (care of least concern sick, injured and orphaned protected animals); Damage Mitigation Permits (non-lethal remove and relocate); Dealer Licences (processed products).

Reporting the buying or selling of native animals

Find out about online reporting requirements for native animal keeping licences including how to register for an account and offline record requirements.

Conditions of swap/trade meets

Read about the new licensing system, and the requirements for bird or reptile meeting/shows.