Oct 26, 2015. The Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) has welcomed a delegation from the Government of Fiji, which visited Australia for three days to learn more about border security functions, particularly in the cruise ship sector.
The three participants, from Fiji Immigration, Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority and the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre, travelled to Brisbane and toured Brisbane Airport and the nearby cruise ship terminal facilities. They observed the arrival and departure processing of two cruise ships and viewed the small craft yacht arrival point.
Margaret Twomey, Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, said the visit highlighted the strengthened relationship between the two countries.
“We were pleased to welcome the delegation to Australia, and I commend Fiji for its commitment to working together on strengthening border protection across the Pacific,” High Commissioner Twomey said.
“The leisure cruise industry is enjoying strong growth in both our countries and it is regarded as one of the fastest growing areas within the tourism sector. To ensure we are ahead of the game we need to work together and continue to put robust immigration and customs clearance procedures in place.
“This visit is an important step as we continue to build on the partnerships between agencies and strengthen regional capabilities. It recognises that collaboration is needed to achieve effective outcomes and ensure all our borders are protected,” High Commissioner Twomey said.
At Brisbane Airport, the delegation observed arrivals and departures using Australia’s new SmartGate technology which allows eligible travellers to self-process through passport control when they arrive in Australia. The system provides a secure and efficient way to clear passport controls. The delegation also visited the container terminal to observe cargo inspections there.
PRESS RELEASE