Things you didn’t know you can’t bring to Australia
If you are a frequent traveler, then you might already be aware that Australia has one of the tightest borders to cross with items (especially food, as we Malaysians are well known to be food lovers).
The following are 7 things you can’t bring through Australian customs.
Homemade food
Missing your amma’s cooking? Well, that’s not going to fly. Maybe you can bring your amma over and ask her to cook for you instead?
Fruit
Craving for manggis or rambutan? No can do.
If you travel with Drake, he’ll know that Aussie Customs don’t like fruit. (via GIPHY)
Food from the plane
If you thought of saving those delicious airplane meals for your next meal, think not. Cause you can’t bring those through customs either.
Flowers
Trying to be romantic? Those spores and pollen are forbidden, unless you have a valid importer’s permit.
Juices and soft drinks
Feeling thirsty? Well, you’re just going to have to explore the variety of beverages they have in Aussie to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Fakes and Imitations
Australians aren’t big about piracy, so stay away from fake designer stuff, ranging from your clothes to even your electronic items. They may confiscate it or even worse, you face large financial penalties.
Pets
Of course! Unless your pet has a passport, visa, and other travel documents of course.
Or unless you’re as fab as Paris Hilton (via GIPHY)
What if I’ve already brought them?
Well, as you arrive into Australia, you will be given an Incoming Passenger Card where you can declare things that you’ve brought. Alternatively, you can bin it at the terminal when you arrive in Australia.
Pic Credit: Australian Expat
Because guess what? You will not be penalised under the Biosecurity Act 2015 if you declare all goods, even if they are not allowed into Australia.
What happens if I don’t declare my items?
- You will be caught.
- You may be subject to civil penalties.
- You may be prosecuted, fined more than A$420,000 and imprisoned for up to 10 years and a get criminal record.
And courtesy of the Australian Border Force, there’s even a YouTube video for all of us to watch. It is just under 2 minutes and very comprehensive.
Sourced via:
1. SBS Punjabi, April 16, 2019 (New rules about what you can and can’t bring into Australia)
2. Australia Border Force, November 11, 2018 (CAN YOU BRING IT IN?)
