The man arrived at Sydney International Airport on a flight from the United Arab Emirates, and Australian Border Force (ABF) officers inspected his bags. Investigators found two containers holding more than 8 kilograms of gold jewellery, estimated at more than $1.3 million.
The individual had failed to declare the jewellery, as required under Australian law for imported goods with a combined value of more than $1,000. During a subsequent interview, the Australian resident admitted he was trying to evade customs duty and GST, estimated at more than $200,000.
ABF acting superintendent Neil Singh said attempting to smuggle undeclared goods into Australia was a huge risk.
"Attempting to evade duty and GST obligations is a serious offence that undermines the integrity of the border system," he said.
"Australia's border relies on travellers making honest and accurate declarations of dutiable and taxable goods. This traveller thought they had a golden opportunity to smuggle their million-dollar goods into the country, but the plan fell in a heap, and they ended up paying a much larger bill."
The Trade Intervention Unit issued an infringement notice totalling $50,448.04. The traveller has since paid the penalty in full, along with the outstanding duties and deferred GST, bringing the total amount paid to $259,352.92.
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