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Minister Fran Bailey: “The economic value of international tourism to Australia increased by A$2.1 billion over the past 12 months” |
AUSTRALIA. The Australian Government today announced a broad increase in the categories that passengers can purchase duty free and take into Australia.
The Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator David Johnston, and the Minister for Small Business and Tourism Fran Bailey MP revealed the changes to existing Customs regulations. Previously, inbound passengers were restricted to purchasing liquor, cigarettes, photographic film and perfumes at inbound duty free stores. From today, regulations have been changed to allow a wider range of goods to be sold to inbound passengers. These include gifts, fashion accessories including sunglasses, and electronics.
“This is good news for all travellers as inbound passengers will now be able to purchase goods up to the value of A$900 duty free from Australian airport inwards duty free stores,” Senator Johnston said. “This includes goods that are no more than A$900 in value, weigh no more than 7kg and are no more than 56cm in length, 36cm in height and 23cm in depth.”
No change has been made to the allowances covering tobacco products and liquor, and any purchases made by passengers at inwards duty free stores will be included in the existing duty free allowance.
Minister Bailey said the new changes will provide a welcome boost for tourists and in-bound duty free stores.
“After a long flight to Australia, tourists often enjoy some retail therapy on arrival. These changes will mean tourists will have greater choice in which goods to buy,” Bailey said.
“Tourists are big shoppers. In fact, the economic value of international tourism to Australia increased by A$2.1 billion (US$1.88 billion) to reach A$22.6 billion (US$20.3 billion) over the past 12 months.
“International tourists are now spending A$2,836 (US$2,549) per visitor, that’s an extra A$262 (US$235) on average from the previous year. Through initiatives such as this, we are encouraging tourists to spend more money in Australia, helping to create even more jobs for Australians.”
Australia’s largest duty free retailer The Nuance Group reacted with delight to the news.
“This is an excellent example of the government working closely with industry to create an improved environment for consumers,” commented David Odgers, Nuance’s Business Development Director Australia & New Zealand. “Australia already leads the world in convenience for duty free shopping and this change will make Australian duty free shopping even better, benefiting tourists and returning residents alike.”
On departure, travellers can now order a wider selection of goods for collection on their return. “This is where Australian duty free shopping will set itself apart,” said Odgers. “When you have spare time on departure you can shop for the products you want, whether it’s the latest iPOD or camera or your preferred cosmetics regime. Then carry only what you need on your trip and know you’ll be able to pick up your purchases quickly on your return to Australia at dedicated collection desks.”
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