australia travel pass

Explore Australia by rail with an Australian rail pass

An Australian rail pass is an ideal way to cover massive distances cheaply while travelling throughout Australia.

The best value Australian rail passes are the Discovery Pass , the Queensland Coastal Pass and the Queensland Explorer Pass .

Discovery Pass

The Discovery Pass gives you unlimited travel within New South Wales plus interstate rail services to Brisbane and Melbourne on NSW Trainlink.

Queensland Explorer Pass

The Queensland Explorer Pass gives you unlimited travel on most Queensland Rail Travel Train services in Queensland.

Queensland Coastal Pass

The Queensland Coastal Pass lets you travel by rail in one direction between Brisbane and Cairns making unlimited stops en route.

Many travellers combine the Queensland Coastal Pass with the  Discovery Pass to enable them to travel Australia’s east coast between Melbourne and Cairns.

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Entering or leaving Australia

Australia welcomes millions of overseas visitors each year. Anyone who is not an Australian citizen needs a valid visa to enter the country.

International passenger caps have been removed for all international passenger arrivals into Australia.

All travellers should be aware that: People entering Australia do not need to provide evidence of vaccination status People entering Australia do not need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration People leaving Australia will not be asked to provide evidence of their vaccination status Unvaccinated visa holders do not ​ need a travel exemption to travel to Australia Mask wearing on international flights to Australia is no longer mandatory . It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.

Australian Citizens

All Australian citizens must enter and exit Australia on an Australian passport. Your Australian passport must be valid (not expired) on the day of your arrival in Australia. It does not need to have six months remaining validity to enter Australia unless you are passing through a third country that requires it. Citizens are not entitled to a visa, even if you are also a citizen of another country. Please see the  Department of Home Affairs website  for more information. 

Immigration and Visas

All foreign travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia.

»    Immigration and visas

If you have a specific question, please contact the Department of Home Affairs .

You will also need to know what you can and cannot bring into Australia, knowing the duty-free concession limits and what to experience when travelling through Australian airports and seaports.

Please visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Plan your trip with  australia.com , the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.

Tourist Refund Scheme

The  Tourist Refund Scheme  enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you buy in Australia.

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• Integrated Cargo System (ICS)

Crossing the border Incoming Passenger Card

​​​incoming passenger card (ipc).

Passengers arriving in Australia are required under Australian law to identify themselves and provide certain information through the completion of a passenger card.

Australian law concerning completion of a passenger cards is set out in the Migration Act 1958 (the Migration Act) and the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Migration Regulations).

What is a passenger card?

A passenger card is a document providing passenger identification and an effective record of a person's entry to Australia.

An Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) is to be completed by passengers entering Australia.​​​​​ IPCs will be provided to travellers on board their flight or ship before arrival or by the Australian Border Force in the arrival terminal.​​

Passenger cards also serve as:

• a declaration in relation to health and character requirements for non-Australian citizens
• a visa application form for Special Category Visa applicants and for Norfolk Island Permanent Residents.

Who needs to complete a passenger card?

Most passengers are required to complete and present a passenger card when entering Australia. However, particular people are exempt from completing a passenger card (as prescribed in regulation 3.06 and schedule 9 of the Migration Regulations).

Australian citizens who refuse to complete an IPC may be penalised. Non-Australian citizens may be penalised and refused immigration clearance.

Completing a passenger card in English

An IPC must be completed in English. Passengers requiring assistance to complete a passenger card can download printable sample versions of the IPC, including translations (see Passenger Card Samples section below).

Completing an incoming passenger card

Passengers entering Australia are required to accurately provide the following information on both sides of the IPC:

• family/surname, given names and passport number
• flight number or name of ship
• intended address in Australia
• if they intend to live in Australia for the next 12 months
• declarations relating to customs and quarantine.

• the country in which they boarded the flight/vessel
• their date of birth and usual occupation
• nationality as shown on their passport
• contact details in Australia and emergency contact details.

Passengers are required to sign and date the IPC, and are also required to correctly answer additional questions concerning their migration status, health status and any prior criminal convictions. For non-Australian citizens, providing false information can affect their visa status.

Completing a passenger card on behalf of another traveller

An IPC can be completed on behalf of another traveller where a person is in charge of that traveller. This includes parents/guardians of minors and carers of travellers with special needs.

A non-Australian citizen is considered to have completed a passenger card where the card is completed on their behalf.

Further information

Information about the Departments access to passenger information of all persons taking or proposing to take international passenger air service flights into and out of Australia.

See: ​ Collection of passenger name records

Information about arrival and departure records in the Movements Reconstruction database and how to request access to the information.

See: Movement Records ​​​​​​​

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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COVID-19 and travel

Find out about travel requirements and steps you can take to stay safe.

Domestic travel within Australia

Domestic travel requirements are determined by state and territory governments. Check the websites of local health departments for information about travel to:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia .

Travelling overseas

The Australian Government does not currently have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

COVID-19 however continues to pose a health risk in Australia and overseas. We strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. You should practice good cough and hand hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may have COVID-19 travel requirements in place. Check the requirements of any:

• countries you are travelling to, or transiting through
• airlines or vessel operators.
• Smartraveller website
• Australian Government – international travel information .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is important if you become sick with COVID-19 overseas. Make sure your insurance includes:

• transit destinations
• inclusions for COVID-19
• other add-ons like cruise specific insurance.

Some destinations also require travellers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Cruise travel

Check with your cruise provider or travel agent for up-to-date travel requirements for your ship and destination/s. You can also contact the relevant state or territory government to find out if any requirements apply for your destination.

Outbreaks onboard a cruise

Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other types of travel. COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.

If an outbreak of COVID-19 occurs on your cruise, you may need to:

• quarantine on the ship
• disembark and follow the local rules in the state or territory or country you are in.

Before you travel, check the  Smartraveller advice on cruises . Contact your travel agent or cruise operator for specific information on their COVID-19 safety protocols.

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Australia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Australia’s High Commission in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

You do not need a pre-departure COVID-19 test to enter or transit Australia regardless of your COVID-19 vaccination status. See the Australian government’s website for advice on COVID-19 and travelling.

COVID-19 quarantine requirements

Each state and territory determines its own quarantine rules. You should check requirements for specific states and territories .

Passport validity requirements

For entry into Australia, your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. If you’re transiting another country on your way to or from Australia, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.

Visa requirements

British citizens can usually get the following types of electronic visitor visa:

• eVisitor visa . There is no visa application charge or service fee
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) via the iOS App or Android App . There is no visa application charge, but a service fee of A$20 may apply

Information on all other types of visa is available from the Department of Home Affairs .

Working holiday visa

Thousands of Britons travel to Australia each year on a working holiday visa and the vast majority have no issues. Working conditions, accommodation and medical facilities are generally of a good standard.

You can find information about your rights as an employee in Australia and how to report any concerns about unfair or unlawful treatment on the Fair Work Ombudsman website , or by calling 131 394.

Get more information about working in Australia .

Dual nationals

If you’re a British national living in Australia with Australian citizenship, or a dual national, it is best to leave and enter Australia on your Australian passport. You could face difficulties and delays if you do not. See Australian government advice for dual nationals .

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Australia guide .

Quarantine of goods

Australia has strict quarantine rules to keep out pests and diseases that could affect plant, animal or human health.

You must fill out an Incoming Passenger Card and either:

• declare any risk goods including food, animal products and plant material (including wooden articles)
• dispose of any risk goods in the bins at the airport or sea port

All luggage is x-rayed on arrival. Any items of concern are further inspected, treated and if necessary confiscated and destroyed. You can be heavily fined for breaches of quarantine regulations.

You can find more information on the Department of Agriculture website .

You will also be asked to declare whether you have ‘visited a rural area, or been in contact with, or near, farm animals outside Australia in the past 30 days’.

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Travel Advisory September 8, 2023

Australia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with removal of major event information.

Exercise normal precautions in Australia. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Australia.

If you decide to travel to Australia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Australia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Quick Facts

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Embassies and Consulates

U.s. consulate general sydney.

Suite 2, 50 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Australia Telephone:  +(61) (2) 2 8219-2100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 4422-2201 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Canberra (The Embassy does not provide consular services.) Moonah Place Yarralumla, ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +(61) (2) 6214-5600 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (2) 411-424-608 Fax: +(61) (2) 6214-5970

U.S. Consulate General Melbourne 553 St. Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3004 Australia Telephone: +(61) (3) 9526-5900 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (3) 9389-3601 Fax: +(61) (3) 9526-5968 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Perth 4th Floor 16 St. George's Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Australia Telephone: +(61) (8) 6144-5100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(61) (8) 9476-0081 Fax: +(61) (8) 9325-5914 Email:  [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.   

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You must have a valid U.S. passport and a visa or an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an ETA. The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers.

If you overstay your ETA or any other visa, even for short periods, you may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

If you are travelling on a valid U.S. ePassport (a passport that contains an electronic chip) and are 16 years of age or older, you are eligible to use Australia’s automated border processing system, SmartGate, upon arrival in Australia (SmartGate kiosks are available only at participating airports). There is no additional enrollment process or fee to use SmartGate. Visit the SmartGate website for more information and for a list of participating airports in Australia.

Visit the Embassy of Australia website for the most current visa information.  

HIV/AIDS restrictions. Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreigners seeking permanent residence in Australia. Depending on the type of visa you apply for, the length of your stay, and your intended activities in Australia, you may be required to undergo a medical examination before the Australian Department of Home Affairs will issue you a visa.

If you are in the application process, and are found to be HIV positive, a decision on the application will be considered on the same grounds as any other pre-existing medical condition (such as tuberculosis or cancer), with the focus on the cost to Australia’s health care and community services.

Additional information about Australian immigration health requirements can be found here.

Please verify this information with the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C. before you travel. 

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorists have targeted, and could continue to target, Australia.

• Australia has an alert system for possible terrorist attacks. The threat levels range from “not expected” to “certain.” The Australian National Security website has up-to-date information regarding the current terrorism threat level. You may also contact the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.
• U.S. citizens in Australia should remain vigilant toward their personal security and exercise caution.
• Australian law protects the right of individuals and groups to engage in peaceful protest and to publicly express their views. Demonstrations and political rallies are generally approved by local authorities and well publicized. However, please be cautious of any possible confrontation that could escalate into violence. You should attempt to avoid the areas of demonstrations and be careful within the vicinity of any demonstrations. You should stay current with media coverage of local events and always be aware of your surroundings.
• You should be aware that robberies, burglaries, assault, and auto theft are common in Australia’s larger cities.
• Foreign visitors in popular tourist areas are targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and petty thieves. Most petty crime can be avoided if basic security precautions are taken.
• Be careful when visiting bars or clubs in the entertainment areas of major cities, as “bar brawls” and other assaults sometimes occur. You should watch out for drink spiking when consuming alcohol with unfamiliar people.

See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:

• Report crimes to the local police at 000 and contact the U.S. Consulate in your district.
• The local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
• See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide information about Australian Victim Assistance programs.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. consulate in your district for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated, and rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned or deported.

• It is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings, such as inside certain areas of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
• Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Alcohol and Drugs:

• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines. Please see Australia’s Department of Health webpage for further information. 
• Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time.
• Random breath testing of a driver's blood alcohol level is a common occurrence.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Potential Health Screening: Australian authorities have broad powers to prevent the entry of diseases and other materials into Australia that might pose a threat to its welfare. In the event of a public health emergency involving a communicable disease, passengers arriving in Australia may be subject to strict health screening measures, including testing, monitoring, and assessment for possible quarantine.

Customs: Australian customs authorities enforce very strict regulations concerning the importation from all countries of items such as agricultural goods, including plants and food products, and wood products, as well as very strict quarantine standards for animals and pets. Can you bring it in?

Contact the Embassy of Australia in Washington, D.C., or one of Australia's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements, and visit the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture website for additional information.

Natural Disasters:

Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, floods, and severe storms. These events are difficult to predict and can result in loss of life. You should be aware of conditions around you and monitor local weather and safety reports so you can take appropriate action when needed.

See our webpage for information on storm preparedness and response.

Safety Concerns:

Outdoor Recreation/Adventure

• Be aware that Australian fauna can be dangerous. From jellyfish to crocodiles, sharks, poisonous insects, and snakes, the continent and its waters host wildlife that merit awe and respect in equal doses.
• Visit the Wet Tropics Management Authority visitor information guide for information on Australian wildlife and marine life.
• Take important safety precautions when swimming, such as swimming only between the flags where a lifeguard is present, and never swimming alone.
• Further information on beach safety can be found on the Surf Life Saving website.

Follow recommended precautions when snorkeling and scuba diving and never dive alone. Over the past few years, there have been numerous deaths related to snorkeling and scuba diving incidents.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Australia. Australian federal law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation.

As of December 9, 2017 Australia defines marriage as “the union between two people.” Australia grants temporary and permanent visas to same-sex partners of Australian citizens.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance

• Australia enforces laws prohibiting discrimination against access to premises, facilities, and accommodation.
• Many of the downtown areas of Australian cities were built in the 1800s. These areas often have narrow sidewalks crowded with pedestrians and tourists.
• Most public transit, parking, streets, and buildings are accessible for disabled travelers.
• Tourist spots at the beach or in the Australian outback can have varying degrees of accessibility.
• Many accommodations and venues provide accessibility information on their websites.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Australia, dial 000.

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

• Excellent medical care is available in Australia.
• Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
• Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

Prescriptions:

• If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of  Australia  to ensure the medication is  legal in   Australia .
• Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of hospitals and a link to the Australian National Health Services Directory at Medical Assistance - U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Australia (usembassy.gov) . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Australia.

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.  

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem during certain months in Australia due to bush fires. Consider the impact seasonal bush fire season pollution may have on your health and consult your doctor before traveling.

The air quality varies considerably and changes with the season. It is typically at its worst in the bush fire season. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Traffic operates on the left side of the road, and all vehicles use right-hand drive.
• Use caution when crossing streets and when driving.
• When crossing roads on foot, make sure you look carefully in all directions.
• Seat belt use by drivers and all passengers is mandatory, and fines apply for not wearing them.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets.
• Speed limits and laws are rigorously enforced. Speed limits vary throughout Australia and are measured in kilometers, not miles. Be aware that speed cameras are everywhere and you will be ticketed for driving over the speed limit.
• Roads and streets are frequently narrower and less graded than U.S. highways.
• Outside major metropolitan areas, most highways are two-lane roads with significant distances between destinations.
• When driving in Australia, exercise caution while passing or merging with adjacent traffic.
• If driving in rural areas, be alert to free-roaming animals, such as kangaroos, and "road-trains" (several semi-truck trailers connected together).
• Passing road-trains is dangerous, and you should pull over to allow on-coming road-trains to pass to avoid being sideswiped.
• If you have no experience with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you should exercise common-sense when driving in the Australian outback.

Traffic Laws:

• Each state/territory has different rules about using a foreign driver’s license and the conditions under which a visitor might have to get an international driver’s license. More information about  driving rules and regulations is available by state .
• Texting or holding your phone while driving is against the law in Australia, but you can use a hands-free system to communicate while driving.
• For specific information concerning Australian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, mandatory insurance, and the rental and operation of motor vehicles in Australia, visit the  Australian Tourist Commission website.

Public Transportation:  Australia has an extensive and safe public transportation network consisting of buses, streetcars, ferries, trains, and subways. Metered taxis and ride sharing services are also prevalent. Use common sense safety practices, such as guarding valuables and remaining aware of your surroundings, on all public transportation.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Australia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Australia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Australia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  portal select “broadcast warnings”.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Australia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Entering Australia Crossing the border

What to expect at the border and what you can bring into the country

​When you enter Australia, you need to show us your travel documents or passport. Your visa is electronically attached to the passport you used on your visa application. Make sure you bring a current, valid passport or travel document and any expired passports or travel documents linked to your visa.

SmartGates automatically process you through passport control at the border. They use facial recognition technology and your ePassport to check your identity.

You will need to complete and show us your Incoming Passenger Card .

You may carry an unlimited amount of cash into Australia but if you are carrying AUD10,000 or more you must declare it .

Your bags will also be checked for prohibited or restricted items .

Departing from an international port to Australia

The Advance Passenger Processing system allows international airline crew to check your visa status before your flight to Australia. 

If you are certain that your visa is valid and they are unable to check your visa status, they should contact us to confirm your immigration status. 

You should not consent to being granted an Electronic Travel Authority or cancel your flight before this occurs and confirmation with us is finalized. 

Aviation and maritime crew entry

Aviation crew operating a commercial flight require a Crew Travel Authority or visa to enter Australia. The Crew Travel Authority allows international airline crew to be checked through the Advance Passenger Processing system before your flight to Australia. Learn more about the Crew Travel Authority .

Maritime crew require a visa to travel to and enter Australia. There are also procedures for your arrival into Australia seaports for maritime crew. Learn more about arriving in Australia as  maritime crew .

Military personnel entry

Military personnel and Status of Forces Agreement civilians from other countries may be able to enter Australia on the Special Purpose visa. See more about bringing household effects, family members and weapons into Australia and find out about other military personnel  entry requirements .

Need a hand?

AUSTRALIA TRAVEL PASSES

Get ready to surf the waves and soak up the sun with our Australia Travel Passes! Explore Sydney to Cairns on Australia’s largest Coach Network and everywhere in between, stopping at all the hotspots like Byron Bay, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast plus more! No stress, no worries – just hop on and off as you please.

The East Coast Australia Travel Pass enables boundless travel along the East Coast, allowing unlimited back-and-forth trips on services between Melbourne and Cairns for the duration of the pass.

The National Australia Travel Pass grants unrestricted travel, based on the number of days purchased rather than distance or specific destination. Holders of the National Whimit pass can journey to any of our 180+ stops across Australia without constraints, for the duration of their pass.

REQUEST MORE INFO

Choose Your Own Pass Duration: Whether you are travelling for weeks or months, choose a pass duration to suit your travel period. Choose between 15 and 60 days on the East Coast route, or choose between 15 and 120 days if travelling on the National route! Your pass activates on your first travel day and you are able to travel on as many buses for the duration of your Pass!

Travel Your Way: Explore any route, in any direction, on Australia’s largest coach network (National or East Coast) for as long as your schedule allows. Start your travel pass on one of 180 stops around Australia

Flexible Extensions: If your pass is coming to an end but you want the adventure to continue, extend your pass with additional days to journey even further along the road.

Tailored Options: Customize your pass to fit your needs perfectly by selecting the precise number of days required.

Daily Timetables: With daily departures, seamless planning ensures you can focus on the journey, not logistics.

Stay Connected: Enjoy complimentary WiFi* and in-seat USB chargers on all our coaches, keeping you linked throughout your travels.

Control your own Transport: Easily reserve your seat for the next adventure through our user-friendly online platform.

Get off the Beaten Track: Discover hidden treasures off the beaten path with Australia’s largest coach network, allowing you to journey further and see more.

Exceptional Value: Invest your funds in enjoyment, not transportation worries, with the most cost-effective option available.

Streamlined Experience: Simplify your travels with just one ticket, eliminating unnecessary complications and enhancing convenience.

BOOK A TRAVEL PASS

> how your pass works.

Choose Your Own Pass Duration: Whether you are travelling for weeks or months, choose an Australia Travel Pass duration to suit your travel period. Choose between 15 and 60 days on the East Coast route, or choose between 15 and 120 days if travelling on the National route! Your pass activates on your first travel day and you are able to travel on as many buses for the duration of your Pass!

> BOOK A TRAVEL PASS

> travel pass faqs.

You can manage your pass and add trips through My online account, or by entering your booking number and PIN on the Manage Booking page. Once in your account, just type your origin, destination and date into the availability search and choose the trip that works for you!

While on board buses, you can expect free WiFi*, USB chargers, air-conditioning, reclining leather seats, and a restroom.

*Please note: WiFi connectivity is only available on East Coast services and in high coverage areas.

After booking your pass, our team will generate you with a pass number and pin code to access your pass. You can then use this information to access your pass details. Your PIN is a unique 4-digit number that acts as the password for your booking; you can use it to edit your pass details on our website.

Once you have added your trips to your pass, simply show the driver your booking number when it’s time to board the coach. No need to print anything out - your phone is fine!. Make sure to have some photo ID handy in case you are asked to present it.

Once you book your pass, you can manage your own bus days and times, subject to the bus availabilty. You can add/change/cancel bus travel days online in your account if you have an one set up, or by visiting Manage Booking and entering your booking number and PIN. Online changes can be made up to 1 hour prior to departure. You can change or delete trips, or add new ones, as many times as you like.

You can travel for as many days that your pass permits. Eg - If you book a 30 day pass, you can book an unlimited number of bus journeys for a 30 day period from your first travel day.

Yes. You are permitted to travel in a north or south direction along the East Coast. If you book a National Pass, you can travel in any direction.

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 with your travel plans.

We are Group Adventure and Gap Year specialists and can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.

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TERMS & CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

This Competition is open to all Ultimate Travel customers. Posts must have been published from 01 Jan 2019 onwards, be original content captured or produced by the traveller and must be posted to a personal Instagram account. Qualifying entries must be deemed by Ultimate Travel to reflect the style of Ultimate’s brand and reflect experiences accessible by Ultimate customers. Posts with no association to Ultimate will not qualify. The winning post will be decided at the discretion of Ultimate Adventure Travel Pty Ltd. If you qualify for a prize, your acceptance of the prize consents Ultimate to a worldwide license to use the image within its marketing material and promotional activities. Entries must include the relevant Ultimate Travel hashtags at the time of posting. These must be clearly displayed and not hidden after bulk text or hashtags. Winners must be following Ultimate Travel on Instagram. Ultimate Travel reserve the right to withdraw and end this competition at any time.

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Check for passport damage

Some countries won’t let you enter if your passport shows any signs of damage. This means a small rip, mark or water stain can ruin your overseas holiday.  Don’t let this happen to you! Check your passport for signs of damage before you travel.   Find out about damaged passports and how to replace one on our website.  

Indigenous art and our passport

This Reconciliation Week we’d like to shine a spotlight on the Indigenous artwork in our passport’s design.

Indigenous art has featured in Australia’s passport since 2009. 

Our latest passport features elements from two renowned Aboriginal artworks. 

The watermark security feature is based on Uta Uta Tjangala’s painting, Yumari  (1981). 

Motifs from Michael Nelson Jagamara’s painting, Possum and Wallaby Dreaming (1985), appear throughout the passport.

You can find out more about the Indigenous artworks in Australia’s passport on our website.

Firstmac data breach

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is aware of a cyber incident impacting Firstmac. 

Firstmac’s investigation into the cyber incident has found the personal details of a number of their clients were compromised, including Australian passport numbers.    

Firstmac is contacting impacted individuals directly and continues to investigate the matter to determine the full extent of the cyber-attack.    

Affected Australian passports are still safe to use for international travel. Your passport number cannot be used to obtain a new passport. Robust controls are used to protect passports from identity takeover, including sophisticated facial-recognition technology.  

See our page on  protecting against scams and identity theft  for more advice on how to safeguard your personal information.  

You can also seek help from  IDCARE , a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in providing advice and support to Australians on how to respond to identity theft.     

More advice on what you can do to protect yourself and your family from cyber security incidents is available on the Australian Cyber Security Centre’s (ACSC) webpage at:  www.cyber.gov.au .

Further information

How much and how long.

• How long to get a passport
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What You Need to Know About the Qantas Walkabout Air Pass

Posted by Lauren | Expat Life in Sydney

Table of Contents

The Qantas Walkabout Air Pass is the Ultimate Ticket to Australia

Qantas isn't kidding around with this pass! It's the best way to see more of Australia, especially if you don't want to spend too much time travelling from one destination to the next.

We tell everyone that comes to visit us about the Qantas Walkabout Air Pass.

With this air pass you can book up to six domestic flights at the same time you book your international flight.

It doesn't matter if your travelling from the States or the UK, the pass can be used by anyone as long as it includes an international flight.

The pass takes some planning, so be sure to check out the website and give them a call if you have to. I know calling an airlines is not something anyone looks forward to but to make sure your air pass is properly sorted out it might be best to talk to an actual person. Plus they have suggestions for what to do and when is the best time of year to go where.

What's Included in the Qantas Walkabout Air Pass

Qantas has the largest domestic airline network in Australia due to the inclusion of the Jet Star network. Twenty-seven Australian cities are included in the Walkabout Pass and are divided into three zones.

And get this, it includes NEW ZEALAND!

I know. It just got better. Seriously, I'm jealous.

With the inclusion of New Zealand, that makes four zones total. You might find it hard to stick to just six flights.

Direct flights from Sydney with Qantas Domestic. All are available destinations with the Walkabout Pass. Image from Qantas.com.

Above are all the direct flights you can book from Sydney. There's no way you're flying all the way to Australia and NOT going to Sydney, right?

Customise Your Trip with the Qantas Walkabout Air Pass

The Walkabout Pass allows you to customise your trip with the multi-city booking engine. As I mentioned above, you can include up to six flights.  

The only catch is you must book your Walkabout Pass at the same time you book your Qantas international ticket. You cannot book your international flight then decide that you want to add on a Walkabout Pass. So before you get online to book your flight to Australia, think about where else you want to go.

You should also be aware that there are zone fares for every sector of the flights.

For example, say you would like to fly from Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Melbourne but the booking engine does not have any direct flights. The only flights available go through Sydney. This means zone fares for each leg of the flight, from Uluru to Sydney and from Sydney to Melbourne, will apply.

This is what I mean by it takes some planning ahead of time as the more direct flights you book the less the cost of the pass.

Here's a Few Suggestions on Where to Go

Obviously I'm bias and think that Sydney is a must see destination that has to be included in your pass. Starting with Sydney, we have a few suggestions on where to go with your Walkabout Pass.

Wine Tour of Australia

• Starting Point (ie where you call home)
• Sydney – Day trip to Hunter Valley . Be sure to try Hunter Valley's white wines not just Shiraz. The Semillon Sauvignon Blanc;blends are very nice.
• Perth – Two day wine tour of Margaret River
• Adelaide – One or two days touring Barossa Valley , famous for Shiraz. It's a good idea and just plain fun to rent bikes in the valley. That way you avoid driving when drinking 'cause trust me, you're going to be drinking.
• Melbourne – One day trip to Yarra Valley and one day trip to Mornington Peninsula . Both areas are famous for Pinot Noir

Australian Icon Tour

• Starting Point
• Sydney – Tour the Opera House , or even better, see an event at the Opera House. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge .
• Uluru (Ayers Rock) – Best to go during winter (June or July). Sunrise or Sunset tours of Uluru are breathtaking.
• Cairns – Go snorkelling or diving at the Great Barrier Reef.
• Melbourne – Tour the Great Ocean Road . The helicopter tour over the Twelve Apostles is pretty cool but kind of scary. Not scary because of the helicopter but because of the price tag.
• Back Home – Sleep for a few days because you're going to be tired after a trip like this.

Australian Animal Lovers Tour

• Sydney – Taronga Zoo is a great zoo. There is also Featherdale but I won't recommend it. I would also skip the Sydney Aquarium. Instead plan a day trip to the Central Coast where you'll see Dolphins at Nelson's Bay and you might be lucky and see a few koalas.
• Brisbane – Cuddle a koala at the Koala Sanctuary .
• Adelaide – Kangaroo Island is all about wildlife. Try and spend a whole day there.
• Melbourne – Penguin Parade is a must plus you'll see Mornington Peninsula which is beautiful.
• Back Home – If you even back it back home because after you've cuddle your first koala you won't want to leave.

The Qantas Walkabout Air Pass is a great way to see a lot of Australia for less.

Play around with the booking engine and see where you can go and what the cost will be.

What Are You Shipping to Sydney When You Move?

Do you know yet.

The truth is you don’t need to know right now, for sure, what’s going with you.

But you have to get your shipping quote ASAP, especially now.

Why? Because international shipping companies need to schedule your shipment to Australia far in advance, some ask for 6 months in advance . Yes, COVID has changed everything, including international shipping .

When filling out the contact form below…

• You don’t need a street address for where you’re moving to, only the city and country. What they really want to know is the major shipping port.
• You don’t need exact dates right now. Go with your best guess.
• Studio or 1 Bedroom —> 20 m3
• 2 Bedroom —> 25 m3
• 3 Bedroom —> 30 m3
• 4 Bedroom or 3 Bedroom + Car —> 50 m3
• Use your “real” contact details for BOTH phone and email. Yes, the form is secure. If you don’t use your real contact details, then they can’t get in touch with you for your quote. Makes sense, right?

International Movers Contact Form

⏱️ Give the form a second to load.

About The Author

Hi, I’m Lauren, and I've helped thousands of people from all over the world move to Australia since starting my blog back in 2009. You can read more about me here , but Sydney Moving Guide isn't about me. IT'S ABOUT YOU. So, I have one question for you. How can I help you with your move to Australia? Let me know in the comments below and don't forget to grab my moving checklist before you go .

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August 26, 2016

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December 26, 2019

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National Whimit Travel Passes

National whimit passes.

Let your heart wander and your travel plans follow with one of our National Whimit Travel Passes! It's the ultimate travel pass, granting you passage on Australia’s most extensive coach network — on any route and in any direction — for your chosen amount of time. 

There is no other travel option in Australia that gives you as much flexibility as a National Whimit Travel Pass. With over 180 stops, both on and off the beaten track, you’ll have the freedom to do as much, go as far and be as adventurous as you want. The only thing you really need to do is ask yourself, ‘How many days will I Whimit?’ 

PLUS! Greyhound will donate $20 from every Whimit Pass sold in June to Landcare Australia 's tree planting projects. That means 2 trees will be planted on your behalf to help protect local endangered species, including our iconic koalas!

NATIONAL WHIMIT BENEFITS

• Unlimited travel: any route, any direction on Australia’s largest coach network (National or East Coast) for as many days as your time allows.
• Top-ups available: add extra days to your pass to go that little bit further down the road!
• Best value for money: spend your precious pennies on having a good time, not worrying how you’re going to get there.
• Customisable: create your own pass and choose the exact number of days you need.
• Less planning, more travelling: daily departures means we’re always ready to take you to your next destination!
• Staying connected: free WiFi* and in-seat USB chargers on all our coaches.
• Online booking management: just jump into your account and reserve a seat for your next trip.
• Go further, see more: travel on Australia's largest coach network and see all of those hidden gems off the beaten track.
• One ticket: keep it simple and don’t be weighed down. It’s the hassle-free option!

* Please note: WiFi connectivity is only available on East Coast services and in Telstra coverage areas.

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15-DAY NATIONAL WHIMIT $399

30-DAY NATIONAL WHIMIT $505

60-DAY NATIONAL WHIMIT $569

90-DAY NATIONAL WHIMIT $719

120-DAY NATIONAL WHIMIT $849

CREATE YOUR OWN FROM $329

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You can manage your pass and add trips through My Greyhound account, or by entering your booking number and PIN on the Manage Booking page. Just type your origin, destination and date into the availability search and choose the trip that works for you!

Our buses come with free WiFi*, USB chargers, air-conditioning, reclining leather seats, and a restroom.

Your booking number is a unique 8-digit number assigned to your pass at the point of sale. You can use this to access your pass details on our website, and to verify your ID when you contact our Call Centre. Your PIN is a unique 4-digit number that acts as the password for your booking; you can use it to edit your pass details on our website.

Once you have commenced travel on a pass there is no refund available. If you have made the purchase and decide you no longer need it before you have made any trips, we can arrange a refund, less a 10% cancellation fee.

You can do this at any time online in your My Greyhound account if you have an one set up, or by visiting Manage Booking and entering your booking number and PIN. Online changes can be made up to 1 hour prior to departure. You can change or delete trips, or add new ones, as many times as you like. To change your booking via our Call Centre up to 15 minutes prior to departure, please call 1300 473 946 .

Once you have added your trips to your pass, simply show the driver your booking number when it’s time to board the coach (no need to print anything out - your phone is fine!). Make sure to have some photo ID handy in case you are asked to present it .

If you are travelling on any of our Whimit Travel Passes, you will be able to re-book the trip, however you won’t receive any additional days.

If you are travelling on any of our Commuter Passes, you will forfeit that trip.

No. Each pass is unique to the person it was originally issued to. If you no longer need your pass, please call 1300 473 946 for assistance.

Yes! You can create your own Whimit pass and choose between 7-60 travel days on our National or East Coast network.

Yep, sure can! You can grab a top-up of 1, 3, 5 or 10 extra Whimit Days (depending on the pass you originally bought) in Manage Booking or by calling us on 1300 473 946 .

Our Commuter Travel Passes can’t be upgraded. If you need more trips, simply purchase a new Commuter Pass.

A ticket allows you to travel between an origin and a destination at a specific time chosen at the time of booking. A pass, on the other hand, allows you to make multiple journeys on the one booking, with the freedom to choose your origin, destination and time at a later date!

The National Whimit Travel Pass offers travel without limit, and is determined by days, not distance or destination. Travel in any direction to absolutely any of our 180+ stops around Australia, for as many consecutive days as you have purchased.

The East Coast Whimit Travel Pass allows unlimited travel along the East Coast on any of our services between Melbourne and Cairns, back and forth in any direction, for as many consecutive days as purchased.

Finally, Commuter Passes are for passengers who regularly travel between the same two destinations, allowing them to purchase their trips in bulk for a discounted price.

The most affordable ski resorts in Australia right now

By Kristine Tarbert | 21 hours ago

Australia's snow season officially kicks off this weekend but with snow levels questionable and lift pass prices skyrocketing, the question is whether a trip to the snow can still be affordable.

The alpine resorts are turning to an increasing array of snow guns and other technology to ensure the slopes are ski-able, and those additional costs are adding up.

On peak days this season a one day lift pass at Perisher, Mt Buller, Mt Hotham and Falls Creek will cost you more than $200. Even at Thredbo you'll pay $199, compared to just $149 only five years ago.

So is it still worth it?

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According to travel expert Helen Hayes it definitely is, as it "opens the door to family fun". And there are still ways you can save some money.

"July and August are the busiest months as that is when the snow cover is at its best, however a visit in early to mid – September can be better value, and less crowded," Helen tells 9Travel.

"Snowman building is free and always fun for kids, and check out activities like snowshoeing."

"For those hardy families who don't mind camping, there are campgrounds like Thredbo Diggings that mean you can save on accommodation costs.

"There are holiday parks in Jindabyne, and also in Bright, near Falls Creek, which also leave more dollars for lift tickets. Regular skiers and boarders should look at an Epic Pass or an Ikon Pass - just read the small print to work out which one is best for your snow needs."

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The most affordable ski resorts

If you're happy to discover a smaller resort there are still ways to save a little money on passes and accommodation. According to SnowOnline , here are some of the most affordable ski resorts in Australia right now.

Mt Mawson and Ben Lomond Ski Fields, Tasmania Day pass adult $45-$89

The Mt Mawson ski resort, run by the region's ski clubs, is located in Mount Field National Park, about 1.5 hours drive from the town of Hobart in southern Tasmania. Just a 60 minutes ride away from Launceston, Tasmania's premium ski resort is located in Ben Lomond National Park and combines nice scenery with a skiable area of 16,527 hectares.

Mount Baw Baw, Victoria Day pass adult $89

Mt Baw Baw is particularly suitable for snowboarders, alpine skiers and cross-country skiers. With 35 ha of groomed slopes, a total of 7 lifts, 3 snow playgrounds and 10km of marked trails, the area is of medium size. From Melbourne it takes only 2.5 hours by car to reach the ski area.

Dinner Plain Ski Resort Day pass adult $99

Dinner Plain is the only freehold village in the Australian Alps and its population consists of only 88 inhabitants. But nonetheless this little village offers over 200 lodges and chalets for your accommodation.

Selwyn Snow Resort Day pass adult $109

Selwyn Snow Resort may not be one of the largest ski areas, but it offers everything a winter heart desires. In addition to the classic offers such as alpine skiing and snowboarding.

Charlotte Pass Day pass adult $159

Charlotte Pass Ski Resort competes with the biggest ski resorts in Australia. Only accessible with over-snow vehicles prevents the village of getting overcrowded. The family-friendly ski resort also offers a lot of attractions for children.

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Facts you should know about Aboriginal Australian and Torres Strait Islander culture

Posted: June 6, 2024 | Last updated: June 6, 2024

Australia is home to some of the world's oldest civilizations. More specifically, we're talking about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Despite James Cook's claims that Australia , as we know it today, belonged to "no one," Indigenous people had existed there for tens of thousands of years before European colonization. The culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups is rich and diverse and continues to shape the nation's identity today.

But how much do you know about the culture and traditions of the first people of Australia? This gallery covers everything from bush tucker to ceremonies. Click on to discover more.

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The oldest living cultures in the world

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are among the oldest continuous cultures on Earth, dating back over 65,000 years.

Follow us and access great exclusive content every day

Diverse groups

There are over 500 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, each with its own languages, traditions, and customs.

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Torres Strait Islanders

The Torres Strait is the strip of sea between Cape York and Papua New Guinea. Here, you'll find more than 200 islands home to groups of people with unique cultures, languages, and traditions that are distinct from mainland Aboriginal groups.

Official flags

The Australian Aboriginal flag was designed in 1970, while the Torres Strait Island flag was created in 1992. Both are official flags of Australia.

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Dreamtime, or the Dreaming, refers to when ancestral Aboriginal spirits created the land, plants, animals, and people. The stories and teachings of Dreamtime are passed down through generations and influence Aboriginal lives, beliefs, and connections to the land.

At the time of European colonization in 1788, there were at least 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages, including 800 dialects.

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Many native animal names come from Aboriginal languages, including kangaroo, koala, wombat, and kookaburra.

Aboriginal art is characterized by dot paintings, rock carvings, and bark paintings. Artwork is not just decorative but holds spiritual and cultural significance.

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Traditional Aboriginal music often features the didgeridoo, a wind instrument believed to be one of the oldest musical instruments in the world.

The Rainbow Serpent

The Rainbow Serpent is often associated with water, rain, and fertility. It is a central figure in many Dreamtime stories and is respected for its role in creation and maintaining the balance of nature.

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Dance is an important feature in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, used in ceremonies to tell stories and pass on traditions.

Smoke ceremonies

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people use smoke ceremonies to cleanse people and areas of bad spirits.

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A corroboree is an Aboriginal ceremonial meeting, often with singing and dancing, celebrating mythology and spirituality.

In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, totems are believed to have spiritual significance and symbolize their roles and responsibilities to each other.

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In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, Elders hold respected positions in communities, serving as custodians of Indigenous knowledge and culture.

Storytelling

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people pass down knowledge, history, and cultural practices through generations via oral storytelling.

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Traditional tools

Tools such as boomerangs, spears, and digging sticks are traditionally used for hunting and gathering.

Bush tucker

Bush tucker, including kangaroo, emu, witchetty grubs (pictured), and yams, has sustained Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for thousands of years.

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Bush medicine

Bush medicine in the ancient and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander use of native flora and fauna for physical and spiritual healing.

Marn Grook and Australian Rules Football

Marn Grook, a traditional game played by Aboriginal people with a ball made from possum skin, is believed to be the original form of Australian Rules Football .

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people believe they are connected beyond immediate family and refer to extended family members with titles such as aunty, sister, and mother.

Environmental stewardship

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have historically practiced sustainable land management, including controlled burning to manage bushland.

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Sacred sites

Sacred sites, like Uluru, are usually parts of the natural landscape that have a special meaning or significance in Aboriginal tradition.

The Stolen Generations

Between 1910 and the 1970s, governments, churches, and welfare bodies forcibly removed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families and placed them in non-Indigenous homes, claiming the lives of First Nations people would improve if they assimilated into white society.

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The Mabo Case

On June 3, 1992, the Mabo decision was a landmark legal case that recognized the land rights of the Meriam people, traditional owners of the Murray Islands in the Torres Strait.

Social challenges

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities face ongoing social and economic challenges, including lower life expectancy, higher rates of incarceration, and health disparities.

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Indigenous culture isn't confined to the Outback. Almost 35% of Indigenous Australians live in major cities, with 44% living in regional towns and 21% in remote areas.

NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week, held annually across Australia during the first week of July, celebrates and recognizes the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

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Cultural protocols

When interacting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, it's important to follow cultural protocols and etiquette to show respect for their traditions and ways of life.

Cultural sensitivity warnings

In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, hearing recordings and seeing pictures or names of the deceased may cause distress. Most television stations in Australia use a disclaimer warning Indigenous viewers that a program may use images and voices of deceased people. Sources: (Working with Indigenous Australians) (Culture Trip) (PakMag) See also: Fascinating facts about indigenous cultures around the world

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Greens senator David Shoebridge says the government is proposing a law that would allow Trump-style travel bans. Is that correct?

Fact Check Greens senator David Shoebridge says the government is proposing a law that would allow Trump-style travel bans. Is that correct?

Immigration is shaping up to be a key issue ahead of the next federal election, as the Labor government grapples with a High Court decision that led to the release of some 150 detainees from indefinite immigration detention, including many with serious criminal histories .

To head off the brewing political crisis, the government is seeking to pass laws that would allow the immigration minister to deny visas to people whose countries refuse to accept the repatriation of deported citizens.

The move has sparked fears of travel bans similar to those seen in the US under former president Donald Trump, with Greens spokesman for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs David Shoebridge condemning the "god-like powers" being considered and labelling the proposed legislation a "Trump-style travel ban bill".

"It allows the government to ban people from certain countries from ever travelling to Australia," Senator Shoebridge said in a video posted to social media platform X on April 15.

"The government has not said what countries this will apply to. But it could be literally any country."

So, is the federal government proposing laws that would allow Trump-style travel bans? RMIT ABC Fact Check investigates.

The verdict

Senator Shoebridge's claim is a fair call.

Labor's proposed legislation would allow the immigration minister to designate entire countries as a "removal concern", subjecting their citizens to a ban on applying for visas to enter Australia.

The government has said this designation is intended to be used as a negotiation tool with governments that do not accept deported citizens.

A similar power has existed in US legislation since 1952 but was rarely used during the post-Cold War period until the election of Donald Trump, who wielded it via executive order to place visa bans on a number of Asian and African countries between 2017 and 2020.

While these bans mostly targeted government officials and their families, experts said the Australian proposal could apply to most visa applicants, with minor exceptions such as for refugees and asylum seekers.

Separate to the above restrictions were the more widely publicised bans that primarily targeted Muslim-majority nations, purportedly on the grounds of national security. These bans barred the entry of most people from these countries.

Experts said Labor's proposal would give the immigration minister powers to institute similarly broad bans, with the discretion to target countries based on what he or she deems to be in the "national interest".

It's not certain how the courts would rule on specific bans, and therefore whether this criterion would allow the minister to blacklist "any" country.

Nonetheless, experts said the minister's power to designate removal concern countries would be exceptionally broad and the opportunities for judicial challenge very limited.

Source of the claim

Senator Shoebridge's claim relates to the government's Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024 .

A spokesman for the senator told Fact Check that under the changes proposed by the bill, "the Government will be able to prevent people from select countries applying for visas in Australia, effectively creating a travel ban".

In an email, he said the phrase "Trump-style travel bans" was a reference to the former president's series of executive orders that prevented people from select countries from applying for visas to the US, effectively creating a ban on travel.

"While there are some minor differences, the purpose of the bill is the same."

The spokesman added that "numerous independent legal experts have made this comparison" in submissions and testimony to a Senate inquiry into the bill.

According to Amnesty International's submission , for example, the bill "raises the spectre of … Trump's 'Muslim Ban' policy, targeting a select group of countries in clear violation of Australia's international human rights obligations".

What is the government proposing?

Labor drafted its bill amid the fallout from a November 2023 ruling by the High Court, which held that non-citizens without a valid visa could not be detained indefinitely if they could not be deported to another country.

Speaking in parliament on March 26, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Andrew Giles said new ministerial powers were necessary "because, regrettably, some countries will not allow their nationals to return to their home country".

Among the changes proposed by Labor's bill is the insertion of sections 199F and 199G into the Migration Act 1958.

According to the bill's explanatory memorandum , the provisions would empower the immigration minister to designate a country "as a removal concern country … if the minister thinks it is in the national interest to do so".

Once a country is designated a "removal concern", its citizens would no longer be able to validly apply for a new visa while outside Australia.

The bill provides for a series of exemptions, such as for dual nationals (where one of the nations is not a removal concern country); partners or children of Australian citizens or residents; parents of children (aged under 18) residing in Australia; and refugee and humanitarian applicants.

Before designating a removal concern country, the minister must consult with the prime minister and the foreign affairs minister to ensure the decision "is appropriately informed by Australia's national interest and the national and international implications of the exercise of the power", the explanatory memorandum states.

However, the decision is "a discretionary personal power" of the minister.

Speaking to journalists on May 10, Mr Giles justified Labor's proposal on the basis that it "is really a diplomatic tool to encourage cooperation on the part of those countries with the Australian government".

Defining 'Trump-style'

Trump may not have delivered on his more ambitious immigration promises, such as the building of a wall along the entire border with Mexico, but according to the Migration Policy Institute , his use of "sweeping presidential proclamations and executive orders, departmental policy guidance, and hundreds of small, technical adjustments" left a deep impact on US immigration policy.

His administration was "arguably the first to take full advantage of the executive branch's vast authority on immigration", the institute wrote in a 2022 report.

Perhaps the highest profile of Trump's immigration-related actions was the so-called "Muslim ban", a set of travel restrictions that followed his campaign promise of a "total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States".

Separately, Trump also issued multiple directions to limit the issuing of certain visas to countries that had failed to cooperate with efforts to deport their citizens.

Jane McAdam, director of the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law at UNSW, told Fact Check that although the two types of ban arose at the same time, "they were different policies and applied to completely different countries".

For the purposes of this analysis, Fact Check takes "Trump-style" as referring to the scope of the former president's various travel bans and to his use of broad executive powers when imposing them.

The 'Muslim ban'

Within days of taking office in January 2017, Trump issued a flurry of executive orders related to immigration.

An initial order titled "Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States" temporarily suspended the US refugee admissions program, specifically barred the entry of Syrian refugees and restricted travel from seven Muslim-majority nations (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen).

All valid visas of nationals of the seven nations, with limited exceptions, were revoked (although the order was reversed by a US court the next month).

At the time, Trump invoked the president's broad authority "to suspend the entry of all aliens or any class of aliens" whenever the president deems that their entry "would be detrimental to the interests of the United States".

Several versions of the ban were challenged in the courts , with the administration arguing its decisions were driven by concerns over "national security and public safety threats" rather than by religious criteria.

In June 2018, the US Supreme Court upheld the government's third attempt, which related to a September 2017 proclamation restricting the entry of nationals of Chad, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, North Korea and Venezuela.

While the affected countries varied during Trump's term — with a later proclamation also barring entry from Kyrgyzstan, Tanzania and Nigeria, for example — the bans remained in effect until they were rescinded by President Joe Biden.

Trump's 'recalcitrant' nations

Also in January 2017, Trump signed a separate order titled "Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States".

This order sought to ensure the removal of "tens of thousands of removable aliens" who had been released into the community "solely because their home countries refuse to accept their repatriation".

Citing "the national interest", Trump directed the government to implement sanctions against so-called "recalcitrant countries".

Section 243(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act 1952 allows the US government to "discontinue granting immigrant or nonimmigrant visas" to foreign nationals whose governments have denied or unreasonably delayed the return of nationals ordered removed from the country.

This means the government may "implement visa restrictions on certain categories of visa applicants … [until] removal cooperation has improved to an acceptable level", according to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement website.

As a result of Trump's order, visa sanctions were imposed on Cambodia, Eritrea, Guinea and Sierra Leone in September 2017; Burma and Laos in July 2018; Ghana and Pakistan in January 2019; and Burundi in June 2020.

In most cases, restrictions applied only to government officials and their immediate families, or in the case of Ghana, the employees of US-based diplomats.

Professor McAdam said the US government has had the power to impose visa sanctions on "uncooperative" or "recalcitrant countries" since 1952.

According to the US Congressional Research Service , the power was generally used against Soviet-bloc nationals during the Cold War.

Between 1991 and Trump's election, however, the designation was used only twice, against The Gambia in late 2016 and Guyana in 2001.

The Guyana case followed a Supreme Court decision that, much like the recent Australian High Court ruling, limited the government's authority to indefinitely detain non-citizens who had been ordered removed.

At the time, the US imposed visa sanctions to force the removal of 113 criminally convicted Guyanese nationals in US custody, following unsuccessful diplomatic attempts. Within two months, Guyana responded by issuing travel documents to 112 of the nationals, and sanctions were lifted.

So, could Labor's bill allow similar bans?

The concept of "removal concern" countries in the government's bill resembles that of so-called "recalcitrant" or "uncooperative" countries used in US law, experts told Fact Check.

Mr Giles has, in fact, said Labor's proposal would "do what the United States has had in place since 1952".

But the scope of the Australian law would allow for much wider bans than the visa restrictions seen in the US, the experts said.

According to Daniel Ghezelbash, an associate professor and the deputy director of the Kaldor Centre, Australian restrictions could be "used for the same purposes (compelling countries to accept forced returns), but the scope is much broader".

"Trump's bans focused on tourist visas only, and with all but one exception, tourist visas for government officials and family members. Australia's bans [could] target all citizens, for all visa categories (with minor exceptions …)," he said in an email.

The Kaldor Centre's inquiry submission underlined its concern over the minister's power to "blacklist" entire countries, noting that "while the US can refuse to issue visas to nationals of designated 'recalcitrant' countries, it first considers whether a country is being deliberately uncooperative or is just unable to cooperate due to mitigating factors, such as disasters or limited capacity …"

"By contrast, the Australian bill contains no indication that such considerations will be taken into account," the submission said.

Mary Crock, a professor of public law and member of the Sydney Centre for International Law at the University of Sydney, said the bill was open to such criticism that it would enable government action similar to the Trump executive orders.

"The concern is with provisions that would empower the minister to block the grant of visas to nationals of certain countries — namely those refusing to repatriate their own citizens," she said.

"I think that the parallels with Trump's travel bans are fair enough. The bill is a massive overreach and very silly."

As for the so-called Muslim bans, Dr Ghezelbash said "their scope was more comparable to the proposed laws in Australia, as they were blanket bans covering all visa categories (with minor exceptions)".

A potentially wide net

Anthea Vogl, an associate professor at the UTS Faculty of Law, said Labor's bill contained no reference to specific countries or nationalities, meaning the immigration minister "can declare any country as subject to the ban".

"Also, despite the stated purpose of the reform, a declaration can be made on the very wide basis of whether the minister thinks it is in 'the national interest' — so the ban may operate for other or broader reasons in practice."

The Law Council of Australia has similarly criticised the "exceptionally broad" scope of the minister's removal concern powers.

"There are no objective criteria and [there is] no specified purpose to guide such a designation," the council wrote in its submission to the Senate.

"Decisions made will be effectively incapable of being challenged by way of judicial review, due to the 'national interest' criterion".

Peter Billings, a law professor at the University of Queensland, told Fact Check that Labor's bill could not allow the minister to target countries for absolutely "any" reason because, legally speaking, ministerial decisions must be based on "a reasonable or rational foundation" and be consistent "with the purposes for which … [the] powers were enacted".

However, he added, although the courts might strike down an unreasonable ban, the judiciary offers only "a very limited form of oversight and accountability, and in this context that is especially true given the broad nature of 'the national interest'".

Professor Billings pointed to the High Court, which has recently described the national interest as "largely a political question".

The court also said the national interest was, in the context of the Migration Act, an "undoubtedly broad [concept] and the possible considerations it may encompass cannot be catalogued".

The Australian Section of the International Commission of Jurists, the Australian Human Rights Commission and the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness at the University of Melbourne's Law School are among those opposed to the bill and its removal concern provisions.

Professor McAdam told Fact Check that while she could not say for certain without further legal analysis whether the government could invoke existing powers to ban immigration in the manner being proposed, "there is currently no law like this on the books in Australia".

Principal researcher: Maria Petrakis

David Shoebridge, X post, April 15, 2024

High Court of Australia, NZYQ v. Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs & Anor, November 28, 2023

Politifact, Trump's travel restrictions survive Supreme Court, fall short of promised Muslim ban, November 14, 2018

UNSW, Andrew & Renata Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law, Submission on the Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, April 9, 2024

US Government, White House, About the White House, The Executive Branch, 2024, US Department of Homeland Security, Migrant Protection Protocols (Trump Administration Archive)

US Department of Homeland Security, DHS Announces Implementation of Visa Sanctions on Four Countries, September 13, 2017

US Department of Homeland Security, DHS Announces Implementation of Visa Sanctions, July 10, 2018

US Department of Homeland Security, DHS Announces Implementation of Visa Sanctions on Ghana, January 31, 2019

US Department of Homeland Security, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Visa Sanctions Against Multiple Countries Pursuant to Section 243 (d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, February 24, 2023

US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, Executive Orders, 2024

US National Archives, Federal Register, Executive Orders

US National Archives, Federal Register, Enhancing Public Safety in the Interior of the United States, January 30, 2017

Reuters, U.S. will not issue some visas in four nations in deportation crackdown, September 14, 2017

Parliament of Australia, House of Representatives, Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, Explanatory Memorandum

Parliament of Australia, Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, Documents and Transcripts

Parliament of Australia, Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, Submissions

Department of Home Affairs, ​​​​Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee opening statement to Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, April 18, 2024

Amnesty International, Submission: Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, April 11, 2024

US Supreme Court, Trump vs Hawaii, June 26, 2018

Congressional Research Service, Immigration: "Recalcitrant" Countries and the Use of Visa Sanctions to Encourage Cooperation with Alien Removals, January 23, 2020

Congressional Research Service, Presidential Authority to Suspend Entry of Aliens Under 8 U.S.C. § 1182(f), February 21, 2024

Gallup News, Immigration Named Top U.S. Problem for Third Straight Month, April 30, 2024

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