A message from customs
The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service have recently alerted us to reports of criminal syndicates targeting international students, to help them smuggle parcels containing illicit substances into Australia.
Students are being tricked into collecting parcels that are found to contain drug precursors. Precursors are a range of substances, such as pseudoephedrine, used in the manufacture of illicit drugs. Importing them into Australia is illegal.
If parcels you receive are found to contain illicit substances, you will be caught and held liable for their contents.
This is a serious crime that can result in imprisonment for up to 15 years, and a fine of up to $330,000, or both. A criminal conviction will affect your study program in Australia and may impact your freedom to travel to and study in other countries.
Recently a 21 year old male living in Australia on a student visa was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for collecting a parcel containing illegal substances and assisting with the importation of a precursor. Following his jail term the student is likely to be deported.
To make sure this doesn't happen to you:
- Beware of being approached on the Internet or a bulletin board to accept a parcel for money.
- Do not answer an advertisement you are unsure of.
- Be aware and say NO to receiving packages for an unknown person.
- If you or someone you know is approached to participate in this unlawful activity, call Customs Watch on 1800 06 1800. This call can be made anonymously.
If you have any questions about this message, please contact your international student adviser or international student services.