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Easter road trips are coming - are your pets travelling safely?

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17 Mar 2026

With the Easter long weekend and school holidays fast approaching, thousands of Australians will be hitting the road, and more are bringing their pets along.

With 73% of Australian households owning a pet, four-legged companions are becoming a common part of family getaways.


Research shows Australia’s iconic coastal drives remain top picks, with the Great Ocean Road ranking #1 for family road trips, followed by West Australia’s South West Edge route and the Legendary Pacific Coast.


But while pets are becoming regular travel companions, many are still travelling unsafely. Pet travel laws vary across Australia, with NSW, Victoria, WA and Queensland requiring animals in vehicles to be properly restrained - violations can carry fines if pets cause a distraction.


As Aussies gear up for Easter getaways, Sarah Ambler-Byatt, Director at Kurgo Australia, says: “Keeping pets safe on the road is as important as passenger safety. By following state regulations and choosing road-safe solutions from Kurgo, owners can ensure their pets stay secure and protected during travel.” 


Radio Announcer Olympia recently invested in a Kurgo product to give her furry friend a cozy, secure space in the car, while still able to sit comfortably and see out the window. Her pup Sootie used to bark when he couldn’t see outside, but the Kurgo Wander Half Dog Hammock now keeps him safe while letting him enjoy the view.


If you’re planning to take your four-legged co-pilot on the road, here are some iconic routes - and the key state rules to know before setting off.


🐾 Great Ocean Road (VIC):  

Experience the rugged beauty along the south-west coast of Victoria by setting off along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives.


Know the rules: Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, dogs travelling on the back of a ute must be secured with a tether or cage.Maximum penalty: $500 fine. 


🐾 South West Edge (WA):

 Free yourself on this epic South West Australia road trip, winding through renowned wine regions, towering forests and marine life-rich coastlines before stretching across the outback.


Know the rules: While WA has no specific law requiring dogs to be restrained inside vehicles, under the Animal Welfare Act 2022 transporting a dog in a way that risks injury or suffering can be considered cruelty.Maximum penalty: $50,000 fine or up to five years’ imprisonment.


🐾 Legendary Pacific Coast (NSW-QLD): 

From sparkling coastline to lush hinterland and rugged national parks, this epic five-day journey between New South Wales and Queensland is one of Australia’s ultimate coastal road trips.


NSW - Know the rules: Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, dogs travelling on the back of a ute or other open vehicle must be restrained or enclosed to prevent them falling or being injured. If a dog is injured because it was unrestrained, this can also incur higher penalties.Maximum penalty: $5,500 fine and/or six months’ imprisonment; fines can rise to $27,500 if a dog is injured.


QLD - Know the rules: Since December 2022, under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 it is illegal to carry an unrestrained dog on the back of a ute or trailer. Dogs may travel in the front passenger seat, but must never sit on the driver’s lap.Maximum penalty: $8,625 fine. 

For those planning to try these iconic road trips, Kurgo recommends making sure you’re across the local legislation, and taking a few simple steps to keep your dog safe and comfortable along the journey. 



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