If you’re getting ready to move to Australia, you might be tempted to throw everything you own into your suitcase, but don’t get too excited!
Australia has some of the strictest rules in the world about what you can bring into the country. These rules help protect Australia’s environment, farms and wildlife from pests and diseases. If you don’t follow the rules, you could be fined, have your items taken away, or be refused entry to the country.
So before you start packing your bags, let’s take a look at what you can and can’t bring into Australia.
Understanding Australia’s biosecurity rules
Australia protects its borders with strict biosecurity laws, stopping certain animals, plants and bugs from entering the country and causing damage to the environment. When you arrive in the country, you will be asked to fill out an Incoming Passenger Card, declaring certain items you’re bringing in with you.
If you bring banned items into Australia without declaring them, you could face serious penalties. Depending on the item and how much you are bringing into the country, you could be fined up to thousands of dollars, have your items destroyed, or have your visa cancelled. If you’re unsure about whether or not you can bring it in, declare it.
What you can’t bring into Australia
Australia bans or restricts many items that might seem harmless at home. The most important categories include:
Food and agricultural products
These products could carry pests or diseases that harm native plants and wildlife:
- Fresh fruit and vegetables
- Meat, poultry and fish
- Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt
- Live plants, seeds, bulbs and cuttings
Animal and plant materials
These items can carry organisms (like tiny bugs) that are hard to see but dangerous to Australia’s environment:
- Soil or dirt on shoes or outdoor gear
- Wooden objects
- Pet food made from plant or animal materials
Other restricted items
- Drugs and illegal substances are completely banned.
- Large amounts of cash (over A$10,000 or equivalent foreign currency) must be declared.
- Weapons, including some knives, must be declared and may need a permit.
Still not sure? Head to the Australian Border Force website for a full list of what you can and can’t bring into Australia, and what you definitely need to declare.
What you can bring into Australia
Processed foods, clothing, electronics and toiletries are usually fine to bring into the country. These include:
- Chocolate, biscuits and other candy
- Coffee, tea and instant noodles
- Clothing and shoes that are clean and free of dirt and leaves
- Personal electronics like laptops, phones and chargers
- Makeup, skincare and toiletries for personal use
Our packing tips for a smooth journey
To save yourself time and stress at the airport, here are some useful packing tips:
Check before you pack
Make a quick list of food, plants, animal products and outdoor gear before you pack them. If you’re not sure about something, it’s best to leave it out.
Clean and dry everything
Scrub your shoes, sports gear and camping equipment thoroughly to make sure you get rid of any soil, seeds and leaves. Make sure everything is completely dry!
Keep your documents ready
If you are carrying medicines or special items, keep your prescriptions ready to go, just in case you’re asked for proof.
Be honest and declare
Even if you’re unsure about an item, it’s best to tick ‘yes’ on your incoming passenger card. Declaring it is always safer than risking a fine.
Australia’s biosecurity rules might seem strict, but they’re vital to protect the country’s environment. Understanding what you can and can’t bring (and how to declare items properly) will make your arrival much smoother.
Before you take off, make sure to check the official Australian Border Force website for the latest rules and detailed lists of what you can bring into the country. Happy packing!
