Australia
The laws most likely to catch a visitor off guard. What is legal at home can be a serious crime here — each rule links to its official source.
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Penalties for drug possession, use and trafficking in Australia are strict.
Convicted offenders can expect lengthy sentences and fines.
§ US State Dept — AustraliaCustoms & Cash
Australia enforces strict biosecurity controls on importing agricultural goods, including plants, food and wood products, plus quarantine standards for animals and pets.
Undeclared biosecurity-risk items can be seized and carry penalties.
§ US State Dept — AustraliaCash of AUD 10,000 or more (or foreign equivalent) must be declared when entering or leaving Australia.
Undeclared amounts at or over the threshold may be seized.
§ US State Dept — AustraliaImports & Customs
Australia enforces strict rules on importing agricultural goods — plants, food, and wood products — plus strict animal quarantine; undeclared items are a serious offense.
Removal, arrest, or detention for violations
§ US State Dept — AustraliaDriving
Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in jail time in Australia, and random roadside breath testing is common.
Jail time for DUI.
§ US State Dept — AustraliaPhotography & Drones
It is illegal to photograph certain buildings, including inside parts of Australian airports, near prisons, and at military bases.
Removal, arrest, or detention
§ US State Dept — AustraliaLGBTQ+ Safety
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or LGB events; federal law bars discrimination based on sexual orientation and same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017.
§ US State Dept — Australia