Government Commits to Digitalize Visitor Arrival Forms
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!
Quick Overview
- The Australian government is implementing digital entry forms over a span of 18 months.
- Referred to as the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD), the form is presently in trial with Qantas.
- Over 450,000 passengers have utilized the ATD since the initiation of the trial.
- The government is launching a $56.1 million investment in traveller modernisation.
- The digital form will ultimately be available to airlines besides Qantas.
Upgrading Australia’s Entry Procedures
The Australian government is scheduled to introduce a digitised incoming passenger form, the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD), over the following 18 months. This effort comes after a successful trial with Qantas and marks the third endeavor to transition from paper-based arrival forms.
The Australia Travel Declaration Trial
The ATD has been tested on select Qantas flights, allowing travelers to fill out their digital declaration up to 72 hours prior to departure. After that, passengers receive a QR code via email, simplifying border procedures upon arrival. To date, more than 450,000 travelers have used this digital form.
Plans for ATD Expansion
The initial rollout will also cover additional Qantas flights, beyond Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, with intentions to launch the pilot in Perth and Adelaide prior to 2026. The ATD is now available through the Qantas app.
The government is considering ways to broaden ATD access to other airlines, initially exploring a webform option, with a long-term objective of creating in-app capabilities in partnership with industry stakeholders.
Advantages of the Digital Form
The government expects that the ATD will streamline border processing, lessen manual operations, and enable the digital gathering of passenger data in advance. This system is intended to improve data quality for risk evaluations, facilitate swift updates in response to global threats, and satisfy passenger expectations for a biometrically-enabled, smooth digital border experience.
Investment in Traveller Modernisation
The government has allocated $56.1 million over four years to modernise traveller procedures, which includes the expansion of the ATD. This funding will also back ongoing collaborative design efforts with the industry to enhance airport departure and cruise clearance processes, as mentioned by Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator Don Farrell.
Conclusion
The Australian government is advancing toward a fully digital border experience with the rollout of the Australia Travel Declaration. This initiative aims to boost efficiency and data quality while aligning with global standards for digital travel procedures.
Reader questions
Frequently asked questions
Fast answers to the questions readers ask most about Government Commits to Digitalize Visitor Arrival Forms.
What is the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD)?
The ATD is a digital form that enables travelers to declare their travel information up to 72 hours ahead of their flight, aiding in smoother border processing.
Which flights currently provide the ATD?
The ATD is currently available on select Qantas flights, with plans to extend to additional routes and airlines.
In what way will the ATD benefit passengers?
The ATD will streamline the border experience, decrease manual paperwork, and deliver a more seamless digital travel experience through biometric technology.
How much is the government investing in this program?
The government has announced a $56.1 million commitment over four years to modernise traveller processes, which includes the ATD’s expansion.
When will the ATD be available in more cities?
The government aims to roll out the ATD to other capital cities, such as Perth and Adelaide, before the conclusion of 2026.
Will the ATD be accessible to airlines other than Qantas?
Yes, the government is working towards making the ATD available to other airlines, starting with a webform and ultimately aiming for in-app integration.
