Security screening is compulsory for anyone entering the secure area of an Australian airport terminal.

This means:

  • all passengers including children and infants
  • all people going with passengers to the boarding gate
  • all assistance animals and pets
  • all aircrew
  • all airport workers.

Security screening officers must be satisfied an individual is not carrying any weapons or prohibited items before allowing them to proceed beyond the security screening point.

Security screening requirements may change from time to time. Before you travel, we recommend checking the latest advice on TravelSECURE.

What are you allowed to take?

Knowing what is allowed and what is not allowed before you arrive could save you, and other passengers, time and inconvenience. For the latest information on items permitted through security screening and onboard aircraft, visit TravelSECURE.


International Passengers

Liquid, aerosol or gel items must be in containers of 100ml (volume), 100gm (weight) or less. These items must be placed in a 20cm x 20cm zip lock bag.

Duty Free Liquid Aerosol and Gel Items may be taken into departure lounges and the cabin of aircraft if they are first subjected to the screening process. Duty Free items must be presented in a clear, sealed security tamper evident bag provided by the Duty-Free outlet and contain proof of purchase docket. If the Duty-Free item fails to clear the screening process it will need to be surrendered.


Your rights at the security screening point

You have the right to refuse any screening process. If you refuse you will not be allowed to go to the gate or board your flight.

When you enter a screening area, you are consenting to all screening procedures, excluding a frisk search.

If you feel you have experienced an inappropriate screening process, ask to speak with a supervisor at the screening point.

Before screening

  1. ​Tell security screening officers if you have any medical devices, mobility aids, implants or if you have other special circumstances.
  2. Show the security screening officers any supporting letters or documents from your doctor and device manufacturer, if you have them. This helps screening officers to select the most appropriate screening method.​

 

At the security screening point

  1. Place all personal items in your carry-on baggage, including wallets or purses.
  2. Remove any outerwear including belts, jackets, coats or bulky jumpers.
  3. Remove all items from your pockets, such as keys, coins, tissues, pens and mobile phones. If you don’t, it may trigger alarms, and you will need further screening.
  4. Place your carry-on baggage and all loose items in the tray provided on the X-ray conveyor belt for screening.
  5. Electronic devices such as laptops and tablets can remain in your bag, unless you have been told otherwise by the screening staff. 

 

During screening

If an issue is identified or an alarm is triggered, you may be asked to go through the security screening process again until you are cleared. This may include other screening methods, such as:

  • a hand-held metal detector.
  • a frisk search.
  • explosive trace detection.

A security screening officer may ask you to remove an item of clothing if they consider it necessary to screen you.

The security screening officer must not remove, try ​to remove, interfere with, or ask you to remove any medical device or equipment you are wearing.

Frisk search

Frisk searches may be targeted to a particular area on your body or may be a full body search covering any part of the body, including sensitive areas.

If you need a frisk search:

  • you will be asked to consent to this process.
  • you can request a screening officer of the same gender to conduct the frisk search.
  • you can request a private room.

If an issue is identified, or the search is to include a sensitive or private area of your body:

  • you will be offered to have the search completed by an officer of the same gender.
  • you will be offered the use of a private room.
  • you may be required to give your written consent.
  • you ​​​may ask to have a support person accompany you.​

Explosive trace detection

Explosive trace detection may be required:

  • if an alarm is triggered.
  • if you cannot be screened by body scanner or walk-through metal detector.
  • if you are randomly selected for explosive trace detection screening after going through the first screening process.

The security screening officer must explain this screening process to you. Explosive trace detection can involve the screening officer placing this equipment directly on the areas of your body they have identified for further screening, or by asking you to run your hands over the required areas and carrying out the test on your hands.

How body scanners work

Body scanners are designed to detect all items worn or carried on a person, not just metallic items. This includes prostheses and medical devices or equipment such as an insulin pump or ostomy bag.
  • Body scanners are the most advanced means of detecting items worn or carried by people including:
    • explosives
    • weapons
    • other prohibited items.

Imagery in body scanners

Body scanners create a three-dimensional image by collecting radio waves emitted by or reflected from the body.

  • Body scanner images are in a simple format.
  • ​Body scanner images protect people’s privacy.
  • Body scanner images show no human anatomy.
  • Body scanners do not collect or store any personal information.

Safety factors

Body scanners used for aviation security screening in Australia:

  • do not emit ionising radiation like that of X-rays
  • do not pose any known health risks to passengers or operators.


For more information, find the latest advice on the TravelSECURE website.