Minister media release

Detector Dogs have assured place in high-tech world - 6 May 2010

The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, today announced that detector dogs are continuing to perform a crucial role for Customs and Border Protection, despite the introduction of new technology and equipment.

“The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service is a world leader in its use of new technology,” he said.

“Our Trace Particle Detection machines can detect one billionth of a gram, and our X-ray machines can scan anything from a whole cargo container to an individual airline passenger’s luggage. But even the most high-tech equipment commonly used around the world cannot detect odours.

“That’s why our detector dogs, with their highly-trained sense of smell, play such an important role in preventing the illegal importation of drugs, precursors, firearms and explosives .

“They are an invaluable tool because of their mobility and versatility. Detector dog teams across Australia search both sea and air cargo, aircraft baggage, international mail, ships, premises and international travellers. Detector dogs have provided 41 years of loyal service and I am pleased that, even with the introduction of new technology, their place is assured.”

Since 1 July 2009, the Detector Dog Program across Australia has been responsible for over 270 drug and firearm-related detections.

The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service Detector Dog Program is a recognised world leader and has supplied dogs to New Zealand, the USA, Taiwan, China, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Bosnia, Saipan, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Tonga, and Guam.

Contact: Belinda Cole 0438 595 567 or Customs and Border Protection media 02 6275 6793