Australia Airport Rules: 15 Common Things Banned at Aussie Airports That May Get You Fined

Malayali actress Navya Nair recently faced an unexpected fine during her Onam trip to Australia. The actress, who travelled to Melbourne for Onam celebrations organised by the Malayali Association of Victoria, was fined AUD 1,980 (about ₹1.14 lakh) at Melbourne International Airport.

The reason? A simple 15 cm jasmine garland tucked inside her handbag.

Speaking at a public event later, Navya explained how the garland had sentimental value. “My father had lovingly bought jasmine flowers before my departure. He divided them into two—one for me to wear during my Kochi to Singapore flight, and the other to carry ahead,” she recalled. Unfortunately, the thoughtful gesture turned into a violation of Australia’s strict biosecurity rules.

 

 

 

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A post shared by Navya Nair (@navyanair143)

Why Australia Enforces Stringent Rules

Australia is famously protective of its fragile ecosystem, and even small items like flowers, food, or seeds can pose risks. To safeguard against pests and diseases, Australian Border Force and Biosecurity officers enforce one of the strictest customs systems in the world.

Authorities stress a simple rule: declare everything. If items are declared, they may be taken away without penalty. However, undeclared goods often result in fines, visa cancellations, or, in extreme cases, prosecution.

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15 Common Items Banned at Australian Airports

Navya Nair’s incident shows how everyday items can land travellers in trouble. Here’s a look at some commonly banned or restricted items at Australian airports:

• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Herbs, spices, raw nuts, and seeds
• Fresh or dried flowers (including garlands)
• Dairy products
• Indian sweets such as Burfi, Ras Malai, Rasgulla, Pedas, Gulab Jamun, Mysore Pak, and Soan Papdi
• Rice
• Tea
• Homemade food
• Honey and beeswax
• Pet food
• Feathers, bones, skins
• Traditional medicines with plant/animal ingredients
• Food taken off a plane or ship
• Items made with feathers, such as down jackets, quilts, and sleeping bags (must be declared)
• Oddly specific bans, like radish for Lohri and cotton Rakhi threads (decorated plastic or metallic ones are allowed)

Australia Airport Security: Penalties for Violations

Navya Nair’s AUD 1,980 fine may seem harsh for a jasmine garland, but authorities argue that even minor breaches could have serious consequences.

Prohibited or undeclared items are seized and destroyed. Offenders can face on-the-spot fines up to AUD 2,664, visa cancellations, and in severe cases, imprisonment.

Airport checks include baggage inspections, questioning, and biosecurity screenings. Travellers are reminded to fill out passenger cards truthfully to avoid such costly mistakes.

Navya’s story is a reminder that when it comes to Australian airports, sentimental value does not excuse biosecurity violations. A garland, sweets, or even homemade food can lead to significant fines.

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Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Image Courtesy: Freepik