Australian Immigration Daily News

The Home Affairs Legislation Amendment (Australia Travel Declaration and Other Matters) Regulations 2024 introduces the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD), which is a digital alternative to the traditional paper-based Incoming Passenger Card (IPC) used by travellers entering Australia.

This legislation aims to modernise the border clearance process by trialling the ATD, starting with certain passengers arriving at Brisbane Airport. The ATD will be available via the Qantas Frequent Flyer mobile app and will allow passengers to submit their travel and customs declarations digitally, streamlining the process and reducing the need for paper forms.

Key points of the amendment include:

• Digital Declaration: Passengers who voluntarily submit the ATD will be exempt from completing the paper IPC upon arrival.
• Trial Phase: The initial trial will begin in October 2024 and is limited to select flights arriving at Brisbane Airport.
• Privacy and Security: Personal information submitted via the ATD will be securely handled by the Department of Home Affairs and will not be stored in Qantas IT systems.
• Visa Applications: The ATD also supports New Zealand citizens applying for a Special Category Visa (SCV), offering a more efficient method to submit relevant health and character information.
• Customs and Immigration Compliance: The legislation updates existing references to the now-decommissioned Digital Passenger Declaration (DPD) and aligns with Australia's customs and immigration regulations.
• Human Rights: The amendment has been assessed for compatibility with human rights, ensuring that it does not impose discrimination or privacy violations.

This amendment represents a step towards a more modern and efficient border management system, leveraging digital technology to streamline travel declarations.

Source: Home-Affairs-Legislation-Amendment-Australia-Travel-Declaration-and-Other-Matters-Regulations-2024.pdf and

Home-Affairs-Legislation-Amendment-Australia-Travel-Declaration-and-Other-Matters-Regulations-2024-Explanatory-Statement.pdf