minister for home affairs media release

Minister opens Customs and Border Protection House - 22 December 2009

Minister for Home Affairs Brendan O’Connor officially opened the new Customs and Border Protection House in Brisbane today.

The purpose-built facility at Brisbane Airport houses about 270 Customs and Border Protection staff,  including enforcement operations, investigation, intelligence, compliance and trade, cargo operations and client services.

Mr O’Connor said the move to the new building was the culmination of many years of planning.

“This new building is well situated in the airport precinct to allow Customs and Border Protection staff to do their jobs more effectively and efficiently,” he said.

“It co-locates Customs and Border Protection staff from three locations – Terrica Place in the city and two other buildings at the airport – into 20-22 The Circuit.

“As well, it places them among the many businesses at Brisbane Airport that are Frontline partners – organisations or businesses Customs and Border Protection relies on to help identify suspicious behaviour or activities.

“Working out of the new location, which is also close to the Port of Brisbane and the Cruise Ship Terminal, will allow them to develop closer relationships particularly with Frontline partners, which will in turn increase industry awareness.”

The building took 15 months to construct and a further three months for fitout and approval. Customs and Border Protection staff moved in at the end of November.

The organisation has a 15-year lease on the building, with an option of two further five-year terms.

Media Contact:                      Brian Humphreys                 0438 595 567