Everyone, please be aware that customs inspections in Sydney have become significantly more stringent. I meticulously filled out the entry declaration form and presented my medications for review. In the past, a quick glance at the medications was usually enough to let us through, but this time, they insisted on scanning all of our luggage—both large and small—through the X-ray machine before we could proceed.
For those returning from Southeast Asia, a word of caution: avoid bringing freeze-dried fruits, as it can easily lead to a hefty fine.
I had a similar experience when traveling to Sydney last month. It’s definitely a good idea to double-check everything, especially if you’re carrying medication or coming from regions with stricter regulations. The extra scrutiny can feel inconvenient, but it’s probably necessary for biosecurity. Just hope they speed up the process for travelers in the future!