New Security Measures In Australia

As of the 31st of March 2007, the Australian Department of Transportation and Regional Services shall introduce enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that can be taken through the screening point at airports for international flights.

The new stringent Aviation security arrangements shall apply to all passengers traveling to and from Australia. These arrangements are consistent with practices adopted by Canada, the United States, the European Union and United Kingdom, where they have proven successful at keeping delays to a minimum whilst delivering improved security.

What are the new rules?

• Passengers can still take on board items purchased after the screening point, including duty free.
  
• Passengers may still carry on board the things they would normally take in carry-on baggage, such as cameras; personal music devices; books; and clothing. Additionally, existing restrictions for carry-on baggage remain the same.
  
• All containers with drinks, creams, perfumes, sprays, gels, toothpaste and similar substances will have to be carried in a re-sealable transparent plastic bag, no larger than one litre, and be inspected separately at the airport screening point.
  
• Each container should not have a capacity greater than 100 millilitres and all containers should fit comfortably in the sealed plastic bag. (The benefit of transparent plastic bags is that it makes it easy to display and inspect the liquids passengers are carrying, while protecting carry-on baggage against leaks.)
  
• Exceptions will be made for passengers with medical conditions and quantities of baby food required for the flight. However, these items may be subject to additional security checks.
  
• Larger amounts of liquids can still be carried in checked baggage.

Examples of plastic bags and contents

The Australian Government understands that the new rules will affect airport security staff, airlines, airport retailers and passengers. They are working hard to ensure that the rules are fair and communicated effectively to the traveling public. Overseas experience suggests that once travelers are familiar with the measures, delays have been minimal.

This measure is one of a suite of measures the Australian Government has introduced to increase aviation security and to harmonize with international aviation security regulations.

For more information, email lags@dotars.gov.au