Overview
- The Albanese government lifted the Passenger Movement Charge by $10, following Tuesday's federal budget, taking it to $80 per traveller.
- The change takes effect on 1 January 2027 with a six‑month transition that ties the rate to the departure date, and the fee is added to all air and sea tickets for people leaving Australia.
- The budget forecasts about $755 million in extra revenue over five years and allocates roughly $700 million to the Department of Home Affairs to administer the change.
- Airports, airlines and cruise operators warn the hike will raise travel costs and urge reinvestment in faster borders, including a digital Incoming Passenger Card, more SmartGates, biometrics and more Border Force staff.
- The government says border modernisation continues and notes short‑term arrivals grew after the last $10 rise, while critics point out the levy has shifted from a pure cost‑recovery tool and will now add up to $320 in PMC taxes for a family of four.