Australia Travel Declaration

The paper-based border process frustrated travellers and strained government resources. For travellers, the 20-year-old "yellow card" system caused confusion and stress, it was handed out mid-flight with no option to edit declarations. For government, this impacted data quality, processing costs, and the ability to plan their resources for growing traveller numbers. Key challenges included aligning Qantas’ strong commitment to both customer experience and the highest standards of data accuracy and security with government priorities, enabling digital readiness at the border, and navigating legislative constraints.

Within the Qantas App, travellers can submit and edit declarations up to 72 hours before departure, using pre-filled data. On arrival, border officers scan travellers’ digital pass which enables real-time data sharing with government systems and allowing early preparation and efficient clearance. The new service modernises border processes by integrating digital simplicity into the Qantas App. The solution reduces paper waste and enables pre-arrival data sharing, streamlining processes for both travellers and border agencies.

Travellers benefit from pre-filled data, fewer questions, editable declarations, and faster airport processing. Since launch in October 2024, over 37,000+ passengers have used the ATD in the Qantas App, with 100% of those surveyed preferring it over the existing process. The digital system improves risk assessment, reduces waste from 300,000+ monthly paper cards, and helps border officers respond quickly. The trial currently covers all international Qantas flights into Brisbane and is set to scale beyond, starting with Sydney next, laying the foundation for broader border digitisation that creates long-term value for travellers and government agencies.

The ATD balances passenger convenience with operational efficiency and strengthens border security. FOR TRAVELLERS Seamless app integration: Complete the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) directly in the Qantas App, replacing paper forms. Pre-filled data and reduced question set: Flight details auto-populate, reducing errors and saving time. 72-hour pre-flight completion: Submit declarations up to three days before departure, avoiding last-minute stress. Editable submissions: Update information any time before arrival. QR code access: Receive a scannable digital pass via email/app for efficient border clearance. Accessibility: Built-in accessibility allows visually impaired customers to complete a declaration without requiring assistance. FOR GOVERNMENT Real-time data: Digital submissions improve accuracy for biosecurity, customs, and emergency contact needs. QR code scanning: Officers quickly clear low-risk travellers or flag high-risk cases at baggage halls/exits. Structured datasets: Replace paper scans with analysable digital records, enhancing risk profiling and resource planning. Sustainability: Reduce paper waste from printed paper cards and minimises environmental impacts of paper production and distribution. Targeted interventions: Focus efforts on high-risk goods/passengers, while streamlining compliant arrivals. Cost reduction: Reduce paper production, distribution, and storage. Future scalability: Phased rollout supports integration with biometric systems and other airlines.