customs and border protection media release

Help us protect Australia's borders - 4 March 2010

Customs and Border Protection officers, onboard ACV Storm Bay, have this week conducted a high visibility visit to the waters off Newcastle.

Customs and Border Protection Director Enforcement Operations NSW, Judy Egan said Customs and Border Protection is committed to protecting Australia’s border and is vigilant against diverse activities such as people smuggling, drug importations and wildlife smuggling.

“This week’s highly visible component of our strategy is designed to educate and remind residents and visitors to seaside communities of the wide range of Customs and Border Protection responsibilities.

“Our eyes and ears in many cases are the local community and the maritime industry and service providers who have an intimate knowledge of their environment.

“You know your local area and you know what looks or sounds suspicious on land, at sea or in the air.

“Your observations could be the piece of information that leads to another successful Customs and Border Protection operation and we encourage you to report any suspicious border activity to our 24-hour Hotline 1800 06 1800,” Ms Egan said.

Customs and Border Protection 24-hour HOTLINE is 1800 06 1800

Media enquiries: Contact Customs and Border Protection Communication and Media (02) 6275 6793