The Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia has applauded the Federal Government’s decision to finally scrap the paper arrivals card as a win for travellers and major step towards a safer, seamless world-class border.
TTF CEO Margy Osmond said today’s announcement marked the beginning of a once-in-a-generation transformation of Australia’s international border, following years of industry advocacy and close collaboration with government.
“For decades, arriving in Australia has meant searching for a pen to fill out a paper card balanced on your tray table. It simply doesn’t make sense in 2026,” Ms Osmond said.
“This announcement brings Australia’s border into the digital age. As digital passenger cards are rolled out at international airports across Australia over the next 18 months, we’ll see less paperwork, fewer queues and a safer, more secure arrival experience for millions of travellers.”
Ms Osmond said replacing the paper arrivals card was the first step in a much broader border modernisation program, paving the way for future technologies including biometric processing, smarter risk assessment and more efficient airport and cruise terminal operations.
“Australia is competing with destinations around the world that have already embraced digital borders. First impressions matter and the arrival experience shapes how international visitors feel about Australia before they’ve even left the airport. The easier we make that journey, the stronger our reputation as a world-class destination,” she said.
“We’ve worked incredibly constructively with the Australian Government over the past 12 to 18 months to help shape this reform, and today’s announcement sends exactly the signal the industry has been hoping for.”
Ms Osmond said the announcement also gave more certainty to Australia’s airports and cruise terminals as they plan billions of dollars in future infrastructure investment.
“Airports across Australia are making long-term investment decisions today. Having a clear roadmap for border technology means they can invest with confidence and design terminals around the passenger experience of the future, not the past,” she said.
TTF praised the Federal Government for showing commitment to working in partnership with industry on the next phase of reform.
“This is a significant milestone but it’s only the beginning,” Ms Osmond said.
“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games fast approaching, Australia has a unique opportunity to showcase itself to the world. The visitor experience starts the moment someone lands in Australia and our border needs to reflect the modern, innovative and welcoming country we are.”
“The Games will bring millions of eyes to Australia, and we need a border experience that matches that ambition: one that is fast, seamless, secure and among the best in the world.”
ENDS