Note to media: Footage of passenger behaviour available here
There is no excuse for abuse or violence towards Australian Border Force (ABF) officers.
That is the message ABF Assistant Commissioner Chris Waters is telling international travellers after several unacceptable incidents at Perth International Airport recently.
ABF officers play an important front line role at international airports, screening international passengers, as part of their commitment to protect Australia's border.
In one incident, on 13 March 2025, a passenger returned on a flight from Kuala Lumpur appearing to be heavily intoxicated. It is alleged the man became disruptive and swore repeatedly during a baggage search carried out by ABF officers.
He then exposed himself by pulling his pants down on numerous occasions before throwing his mobile phone which hit an officer.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) attended and removed the man from the airport. After investigating the incident, the AFP charged the man with common assault, disorderly behaviour in public and two counts of indecent acts in public.
He pleaded guilty in the South Hedland Magistrates Court on 13 May, 2025, to the four offences and was fined a total of $1,500 and ordered to pay court costs.
On 15 April 2025, a WA traveller who had returned from Thailand, allegedly became aggressive after ABF officers selected him for a routine baggage search.
When ABF officers advised they would be seizing a carton of cigarettes the man had failed to declare, he allegedly punched a wall, causing a hole.
The AFP was called and interviewed the man before escorting him from the international terminal.
The AFP has summonsed the man to appear in Perth Magistrates Court in August to face a charge of criminal damage, contrary to section 444(1)(b) of the Criminal Code (WA).
Assistant Commissioner Waters said this was the third reported incident in as many months, highlighting a disturbing and growing trend of abuse toward ABF officers.
“Each week, the ABF clear around 750,000 passengers entering and leaving Australia's borders through airports. It is a crucial role that supports our economy and ensures both our border and our community are protected," Assistant Commissioner Waters said.
“Our officers are hardworking, dedicated men and women, and the ABF has zero tolerance towards members of the public who abuse or assault officers while they are carrying out their lawful duties.
“Like any of us when we go to work, at the very minimum, our officers deserve to be treated with respect and common courtesy.
“Verbal or physical abuse will not be tolerated."
“There is no excuse. No matter how drunk or tired you are after your flight, we will act swiftly with our law enforcement partners if you behave this way.
ABF officers are integral to maintaining the security of Australia's borders. In 2024, they processed over 41 million international air travellers and over 1.4 million international sea travellers.
Media contact: media@abf.gov.au
