What is an assistance animal in Australia?

An assistance animal is connected to a person with disability and trained to assist that person. It must also meet appropriate standards of hygiene and behaviour for public places. It is not the same as an ordinary pet.

Do you train assistance dogs?

No. Training is the handler’s responsibility. We can help explain what evidence, public access behaviour, hygiene and documentation may be needed, and we may help point people toward appropriate training support where available.

What evidence can a business ask for?

A business may ask for evidence that the animal is an assistance animal and trained to meet appropriate hygiene and behaviour standards for a public place. The request should be respectful and should not require a handler to disclose a full medical history at the door.

What documents should I keep?

• Training records or public access assessment information.
• Relevant identification or certification documents.
• Council registration, microchip and vaccination records.
• Evidence of the animal’s disability-related assistance role.
• Records of refusals, complaints or access problems.

Can a business refuse access?

A business should not refuse access because of a blanket “no animals” rule or because disability is not visible. However, actual behaviour, hygiene or safety concerns may matter. The reason should be based on evidence, not assumptions.

What should I do after a refusal?

Write down what happened as soon as possible. Record the date, time, location, staff names, what was said, what evidence you showed and what impact the refusal caused. Keep receipts, bookings, emails, screenshots and witness details.

Can Assistanimal give legal advice?

No. We can provide general information and support around assistance animal access and documentation. For legal advice, speak with a solicitor, Legal Aid, LawRight, a community legal centre, the Queensland Human Rights Commission or the Australian Human Rights Commission.