ABF Border Security Update - Drug and Contraband Detections Increase
The Australian Border Force reported significant increases in illegal drug seizures and child exploitation material detections at the border. This affects all travellers entering Australia.
Official source ↗The ABF Commissioner provided an update on border security trends for the 2026-27 Budget Estimates. Between July 2025 and March 2026, the ABF detected 14 tonnes of major illicit drugs at the border, with cocaine seizures up 23% and ketamine detections up 255% compared to the previous year. The ABF also identified an alarming increase in child abuse material, with 122 individuals caught with such material across 226 devices, resulting in 54 arrests and the identification of 30 at-risk children in Australia.
Additionally, the ABF intensified efforts against illicit tobacco and vaping products, detecting 998.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco and over 4 million vapes between December 2025 and March 2026. These enforcement actions resulted in $3.5 billion in recovered evaded tobacco excise duty.
Visa applicants should be aware that the ABF maintains strict border controls and screening procedures. According to Home Affairs, all travellers entering Australia are subject to thorough customs and biosecurity checks to protect the community. If you're planning to travel to or from Australia, ensure you comply with all customs and quarantine regulations.