Custom Regulations

Australia has very strict laws regarding the importation and exportation of plant, food and animal items. All such items much be declared. Most will undergo a quarantine inspection. It is better to declare items that you are unsure of than to face the penalty for not declaring them. Declaration of goods does not mean an automatic search of your luggage.

Any protected wildlife or items made from them are forbidden in Australia, and will be taken by Customs upon arrival. Items made from protected species may include clothing, bags, shoes, jewellery, ornaments and trophies. Foreign certificates stating that their products have been made from protected animals specifically bred for such purposes are not recognised in Australia. If you do have any such items, an import permit is required from the Australian Nature Conservation Agency. Consideration are only given to applications with written approval for export by the relevant wildlife authorities in the country of purchase.

If you want to bring live animals into the country you need to obtain a permit from:

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service
Executive Director
CANBERRA ACT 2601
AUSTRALIA

If you are required to take prescription medicines, you should first contact an Australian embassy or consulate to make sure that they type of medicine and quantities are allowed in Australia. It is advisable to carry a letter from your doctor with the prescription when travelling.