What is a pet registry in Australia? NSW Pet Registry vs national microchip databases

What is a pet registry in Australia? NSW Pet Registry vs national microchip databases

"Pet registry" can mean three different records: your council's registration, a state register, or a national microchip database. They are separate, and updating one does not change the others. Central Animal Records (CAR) is a national microchip database, and we don't replace any state register.

The three kinds of record

1. Council registration. This is the record your local council keeps. Check with your council about what applies where you live.

2. State registers. Some states run their own register, such as the NSW Pet Registry and Dogs and Cats Online in South Australia. CAR does not replace these. Microchip registration with CAR is a separate record. Even if your pet is on a state register, it's a good idea to also register it on a national database that operates 24/7, like CAR. That way your pet can still be identified if it's sold interstate, or if you take it on holiday with you.

3. National microchip databases. There are four:

  • Central Animal Records (CAR)
  • Australasian Animal Registry
  • Global Micro
  • PetSafe

CAR is the largest of the four. Having your pet registered on a national database that operates 24/7 is a very good idea.

Looking for your NSW Pet Registry or other state login?

Use that register's own website. We can't help you log in to it, and we don't link to it from here.

How to check which database your pet's microchip is on

The checker is free and the result is instant.

  1. Have your pet's microchip number ready.
  2. Open the CAR microchip checker.
  3. Enter the microchip number.
  4. Read the result. It shows whether the number is registered and which database it's on.

What happens next

  • Registered on CAR? You can update your details any time. Updating your details on CAR is free.
  • Not registered? You can register online from $13.99, and it's instant. You'll get a certificate when your pet is registered, which is how you know it's done.
  • On another database? See My pet's microchip is on a different database.

Related help

Good to know

  • Council registration and microchip registration are separate records. Renewing or updating one does not change the other.
  • A state register and a national database are also separate records.
  • CAR does not replace the NSW Pet Registry or Dogs and Cats Online (SA).
  • Not sure what applies to you? Check with your local council.
  • The checker shows the database for any microchip number, not only CAR's.

Need help?

Call us on 03 9706 3187 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm Melbourne time) or email info@car.com.au.