Minister Media Release

ENHANCING CUSTOMS COOPERATION IN THE PACIFIC - 12 April 2010

The Pacific Customs Management Program 2010, managed by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service will begin in Canberra today.

The program provides a development opportunity for customs officers from the Pacific region to enhance their capabilities in order to manage the challenges of operating in the modern customs environment.

Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor said the program was designed to develop management capacity within Pacific customs administrations and contribute to trade facilitation and border integrity in the Pacific.

“The program will also enhance networks between regional customs administrations and build an increased shared understanding around border issues.”

“It draws on the experience of the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service in providing world class management training and provides a unique development opportunity for future customs leaders,” he said.

This year, 15 officers from Oceania Customs Organisation (OCO) member countries will participate in the month-long program largely funded by AusAID’s Public Sector Linkages Program. The Centre for Customs and Excise Studies (CCES) at the University of Canberra has been engaged to provide the academic services with support from Customs and Border Protection experts.

Participants will attend presentations over a range of customs-related fields and apply the knowledge gained from these presentations in workshops and strategic management exercises. The final component of the program will be held in Cairns where participants will be able to experience Customs and Border Protection operations at the airport and wharf.

In addition, the best performing student will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship from the OCO and CCES to allow them to undertake a Masters level customs study with the University of Canberra.

Contact: Brian Humphreys 0438 595 567 or Customs and Border Protection media (02) 6275 6793