Top 10 Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelters in Australia

Where to Go When Disaster Strikes.

When emergencies happen — from bushfires to floods — evacuating quickly can save lives. But what about your pets? Too often, animals are left behind because owners don’t know where they can go together. Thankfully, more emergency shelters in Australia are recognising the vital bond between people and their pets, and are now opening their doors to all family members — furry ones included.

In this guide, we highlight 10 pet-friendly emergency shelters across Australia, with links and details to help you plan ahead.

Why Pet-Friendly Shelters Matter

For many Australians, pets are family. Yet during past disasters, people have risked their lives or ignored evacuation orders because they refused to abandon their animals. According to the RSPCA, thousands of pets are lost or injured each year during natural disasters.

Pet-friendly shelters reduce stress, improve compliance with evacuation orders, and ensure that every family member — human or animal — stays safe.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelters in Australia

📍 1. Brisbane Showgrounds – Queensland

Located in Bowen Hills, the Brisbane Showgrounds is a major evacuation site during floods and storms. Designated pet zones include indoor kennels and outdoor pens, with water and food stations. Volunteers and RSPCA Queensland staff are often on hand to assist with care, feeding, and basic medical checks. Capacity is high, but early arrival ensures a spot.

📍 2. Cairns Cyclone Shelter – Queensland

Purpose-built to withstand Category 5 cyclones, this reinforced shelter allows pets in secure carriers alongside owners. Facilities include water stations, waste disposal areas, and staff guidance. Located at Cairns State High School, it is specifically designed for high‑risk weather events.

📍 3. Sydney Olympic Park – New South Wales

This massive venue converts into an evacuation hub during disasters, with an entire hall dedicated to pets. Cooling areas, veterinary support, overnight caging, and bedding are provided. Large enough to accommodate hundreds of animals, it’s managed in coordination with local councils and the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

📍 4. Newcastle Exhibition Centre – New South Wales

A key evacuation hub in the Hunter region, this centre becomes a pet‑friendly shelter during floods and bushfires. Partitioned sections with straw bedding, crates, and food stations are set up. Local volunteers and vets often help provide care and advice.

📍 5. Wagga Wagga Showground – New South Wales

Serving both urban and rural evacuees, this showground accommodates pets and even livestock during floods and fires. Open sheds, water troughs, and staff guidance are available. Livestock holding pens and hay are provided if required.

📍 6. Adelaide Showground – South Australia

During fire season, this centrally located shelter provides undercover pavilions and outdoor pens. The Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of SA, in partnership with RSPCA South Australia, assists with pet care and welfare on site.

📍 7. RAC Arena (formerly Perth Arena) – Western Australia

In bushfire season, the arena hosts evacuees and their pets in sectioned areas. Facilities include cooling fans, misting stations, water bowls, and temporary kennels. City of Perth Animal Management teams assist with care.

📍 8. Darwin Cyclone Shelter – Northern Territory

Darwin’s cyclone shelters are fortified against extreme winds and storm surges. Pets are allowed in designated rooms or cages near owners. Volunteers distribute water and cleaning supplies to help maintain hygiene.

📍 9. Launceston Showground – Tasmania

This venue provides undercover livestock sheds and grassed outdoor areas. During bushfires and floods, it serves as a refuge for both domestic pets and farm animals. Local council staff and volunteers are available to assist.

📍 10. Local Council-Run Community Centres

Many local councils operate smaller community halls, sports centres, or showgrounds as backup shelters. Contact your local council directly or visit the Australian Local Government Association Directory for pet‑friendly options near you.

Tips for Using Pet-Friendly Shelters

✅ Bring a secure crate or carrier — most shelters require pets to be contained. 

✅ Pack food & water for several days. 

✅ Bring identification tags & vaccination records.

✅ Bring comfort items like toys or blankets. 

✅ Bring cleaning supplies to keep the area tidy. 

✅ Arrive early if possible — capacity can fill quickly during widespread disasters.

What If No Pet-Friendly Shelter Is Available?

If no official shelter accepts pets in your area:

✅ Arrange with friends or family outside the danger zone. 

✅ Look for pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities (PetFriendly.com.au). 

✅ Contact local animal shelters or groups such as Safe Pets Safe Families, which often open emergency spaces for pets.

Final Thoughts

Planning ahead is critical — don’t wait until the last minute. 

✅ Make a list of pet-friendly shelters near you. 

✅ Keep it with your emergency kit. 

✅ Know your local council’s emergency contact details.

When disaster strikes, knowing where to go can save time, reduce stress, and keep everyone — including your furry friends — safe.

Checklist

✅ Crate or carrier 

✅ Food & water for 3–5 days 

✅ ID & vaccination records 

✅ Comfort items (toys, blanket) 

✅ Cleaning supplies 

✅ List of nearby pet-friendly shelters