I had no idea of the previous policy and have been trying to arrange for our recently rescued Jack Rusell to fly with me. Read all the docs and purchased an IATA approved crate from Petbarn.
Having to book him with 3 days notice does not work for me. I normally book domestic flights with less than 24 hour notice. QF Freight do not provide a cost estimate unless you request it, and it took no less than 5 emails to get an actual quote which is not guaranteed despite having the weight of the puppy, the crate and the dimensions. The 'estimate' is the cost of a one way fare, even though I only take hand luggage only on this route.
With a 90 minute drop off requirement with no guaranteed time of delivery has left me determined to never, ever fly him. I would simply drive the four hours to the destination and enjoy his company while he sits in the passenger seat!FWI
FWIW, while I could afford the prices it's shameful that NGOs are having their work affected by the price increase as I just read on an industry website
http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2014/12/nfp-dog-fight-over-flying-kangaroo-price-hike