First ePassport issued
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), has issued the first biometrically enabled Australian passport – or ePassport.
The new passports, which feature a microchip embedded in the centre that contains information about the bearer, along with their image , can be verified when passed before a technical reading machine known as an optical identifier.
According to Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer, The chip will contain the same information that is shown on existing Australian passports.
“This is the most secure passport that Australia has ever had. We need a passport system with a high level of integrity. This is a passport that has the highest level of integrity of any passport that Australia has ever had,” Mr Downer said. He also claimed processing time would be quicker.
The new passports will cost $172, up $19.
Graham Muldoon
Have your say Cancel reply
Subscribe/Login to Travel Mole Newsletter
Travel Mole Newsletter is a subscriber only travel trade news publication. If you are receiving this message, simply enter your email address to sign in or register if you are not. In order to display the B2B travel content that meets your business needs, we need to know who are and what are your business needs. ITR is free to our subscribers.

































Phocuswright reveals the world's largest travel markets in volume in 2025
Cyclone in Sri Lanka had limited effect on tourism in contrary to media reports
Higher departure tax and visa cost, e-arrival card: Japan unleashes the fiscal weapon against tourists
In Italy, the Meloni government congratulates itself for its tourism achievements
Singapore to forbid entry to undesirable travelers with new no-boarding directive