Protecting our borders

Customs plays an important role in protecting Australia's borders from the entry of illegal and harmful goods and unauthorised people. It must carry out this role while not impeding the legitimate movement of people and goods across the border.

Customs contributes to the whole-of-government approach to secure Australia from potential terrorist threats. Cargo intervention, passenger screening and first-port boarding rates are at an all-time high. International and inter-agency cooperation continue to play a vital role in protecting our borders.

Customs remains focused on intercepting illicit drugs and other items potentially harmful to the community.

Customs protecting our borders (750KB) January 2007

Customs and Border Protection works closely with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to ensure that both agencies continue to look for opportunities to improve effectiveness and efficiency in managing common border protection and biosecurity functions. This strategic relationship is described in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two agencies. The MOU was signed at an official ceremony in Canberra on 21 July 2011 by Customs and Border Protection Chief Executive Officer, Mr Michael Carmody, and DAFF Secretary, Dr Conall O’Connell. Annexure to identify potential areas for further collaboration will be available over the coming months.

Related documents:

MOU - DAFF and Customs and Border Protection

Annex E1: Joint Communications

Annex D1: Shared Property Arrangements