Pet registration and identification

Microchipping & registration

Whether you've just welcomed a new pet or have been a long-time animal lover, microchipping and registration are essential steps in responsible pet ownership. In NSW, all dogs and cats must by law be registered with the Companion Animals Register.

This also helps reunite lost pets with their families and plays an important part in supporting animal welfare and community safety across the state.

What is the NSW Companion Animals Register?

The NSW Companion Animals Register is a state government database, operated by the Office of Local Government and used by all NSW councils to store microchip and registration details for dogs and cats.

Read the information below to understand what the register is, why it matters, and what your responsibilities are as a pet owner.

Companion registry requirement details

Pets must be registered by 12 weeks of age.
Until payment is made, your pet is not officially registered, and you may be liable for a $330 fine plus late fees.
The registration fee is a one-time payment, valid for the pet’s entire life in NSW, even if ownership changes.

Breeders: Puppies and kittens must be microchipped and registered in the breeder’s name by 12 weeks of age if still in their care.

Current lifetime registration fees

Find out what the one-time pet registration fees are and where to access current rates.

Learn more

These fees cover your pet’s lifetime and are only paid once.

Commercial clients and certified identifiers may incur a processing fee per form if submitted through Council.

For the most up-to-date registration fees, visit the Office of Local Government website.

Annual permit fees

Learn when an additional annual fee is required and what its purpose is.

Additional annual permit information

An additional annual permit fee is required for owners of:

Non-desexed cats over four months of age
Restricted dog breeds
Dogs declared dangerous

The purpose of this fee is to:

Encourage desexing of cats
Discourage ownership of high-risk breeds
Promote responsible pet behaviour management

Current annual permit fees are available on the Office of Local Government website.

How to register your pet

This section provides direct links to the forms you need to register or update your pet's details.

How to register or update your pet's record

To register or update your pet’s records in the Companion Animals Register, please complete the relevant form:

Lifetime Registration Form

To verify an existing microchip in your animal, please have your vet complete the:

Verification of Existing Microchip Form

To identify your animal in the Companion Animals Register, please complete the:

Permanent Identification Form

Annual Permit Form

These forms can be accessed online or via Kiama Council.

Change of ownership or address

Keep your pet's records accurate by updating details when circumstances change.

Updating pet ownership details

If you have moved or your pet has changed ownership, you’ll need to update your records within 14 days after the change occurs:

Keeping your details up to date ensures the Companion Animals Register remains accurate.

When your pet passes away

We understand that losing a beloved pet is incredibly difficult. During this time, letting us know when a companion animal has passed away helps ensure the NSW Companion Animals Register remains accurate and up to date.

What to do

If your pet has passed away, please notify Council by emailing council@kiama.nsw.gov.au with the following details within 28 days

Your contact details
Your pet’s microchip number
The date your pet passed away

This ensures the register is kept up to date and prevents unnecessary reminders.