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Prohibited goods

The Australian Government prohibits the import and export of certain goods to and from Australia.

You can import or export most prohibited goods with written permission if you meet certain conditions and requirements.

Some goods are under absolute prohibition. This means you must not import or export the goods in any circumstance.

The main principles underlying the development of prohibited goods controls are in the Border Controls Whole-of-Government Policy Framework. This is available on the Australian Trade and Investment Commission's website: Simplified trade reforms webpage.

Prohibited goods

This website is for general guidance only. On these pages you can find out:

which goods are prohibited
where to send a request to export or import your goods
where to get more information.

Search the list of prohibited goods

Tobacco

Restrictions apply to the import of tobacco products.

Importers must have permission to import tobacco products.

All duties and tax liabilities must be paid when tobacco arrives at the border.

Find out about tobacco laws and how to apply for permission to import it

Warning!

You are responsible for ensuring you can import or export your goods, and for ensuring they meet the relevant requirements under Australian law.

If you import or export prohibited goods without the relevant written permission or licence, we may seize your goods. You could also face penalties of up to 2,500 penalty units or 10 years imprisonment, or both.