Spiny-tailed geckos and pygmy blue tongue lizards are among dozens of native reptile species set for better protection from international smugglers.
Environment Minister Sussan Ley has listed 127 species for inclusion on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora list.
It represents one of the largest listings from any state party in the convention's almost 50-year history, the minister says.
"This sort of smuggling is cruel and abhorrent," Ms Ley said in a statement on Sunday.
"Sadly our reptiles have become a major international target and while I stress very clearly that it is already a crime under Australian law to export these animals without specialised permits, this listing will secure additional international support for their protection."
Australia was an original signatory to the convention which currently lists almost 33,000 plants and 6000 animal species for protection against international trade.
The convention has helped curb ivory exports and the international trade of exotic animals.
"Government agencies continue to track down networks of serious wildlife crime activity and to hand out severe punishment to perpetrators," Ms Ley said.
"Over the last two years, my department's environmental crime unit has successfully seen the conviction of 11 people on wildlife trafficking charges with a total of almost 27 years imprisonment."
The Humane Society International said native reptiles were routinely advertised on pet trade websites and Facebook groups in Europe despite their export already being prohibited under Australian laws.
"Their unique features can see them fetch thousands of dollars from collectors and the trade is often cruel," it said.
"Live animals are bound with tape and stuffed into socks or small containers before being shipped abroad with no food or water."
People convicted of wildlife trade offences in Australia face a maximum 10 years imprisonment or a $222,000 fine.
