How much cash can you bring into Australia?

As a general rule, if you are carrying cash in excess of AUD$10,000 or its foreign currency equivalent, you are required to declare it at customs when entering or leaving Australia. This includes cash, traveller’s cheques and other monetary instruments such as credit cards, debit cards and prepaid cards that have a value of over AUD$10,000 when combined.

This rule applies to all travellers aged 18 or over and can be enforced at either the border or inland by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers.

Why do I have to declare cash over AUD$10,000?

The declaration of cash is essential for assisting ABF officers in fulfilling their role in combating money laundering, terrorism and fraud, as well as improving the integrity of Australia’s border control system. By requiring travellers to declare cash over a certain amount, the ABF can identify and assess potential risks associated with the movement of large amounts of cash.

What happens if I don’t declare cash over AUD$10,000?

Failure to declare cash or undeclared cash can result in significant consequences, including fines of up to AUD$20,000 and even criminal prosecution. To ensure compliance with Australian laws, it is important to truthfully and accurately declare any cash or monetary instruments that you are carrying when entering or leaving the country.

How do I declare cash over AUD$10,000?

Declaring cash over AUD$10,000 is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Complete a Incoming Passenger Card or Outgoing Passenger Card. All travellers must complete a passenger card when entering or leaving Australia. Ensure that you tick the box that indicates you are carrying more than AUD$10,000 in cash or its equivalent.

2. Prepare documentation to support your cash. This can include proof of income, bank statements, receipts, or other documents that show where your cash came from and why you are carrying it.

3. Present your cash and declaration to ABF officers at customs. They will assess the information you have provided and may ask you further questions about the source and purpose of your cash.

Remember that it is important to be honest and accurate when declaring cash. Any attempt to conceal cash or provide false or misleading information can result in serious penalties.

Can I avoid the AUD$10,000 limit?

Yes, there are certain circumstances in which you may be exempt from the AUD$10,000 limit. These include:

- Cash carried by an official of a foreign government or an international organisation for official purposes.

- Cash carried for the purpose of international business transactions conducted by a business or organisation approved by the ABF.

- Cash carried by an individual for personal use, such as travel expenses, medical expenses or tuition fees.

For these exceptions, you may need to provide additional documentation or evidence to support your claim of exemption. It is advisable to check with the ABF for specific requirements if you believe you may qualify for an exemption.

Note:

This information is current as of April 2022. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to check the Australian Border Force (ABF) website.