Latest News About Australia Departure Tax Increase 2026

Here’s what’s currently reported about Australia’s departure tax changes in 2026 and beyond:

• Reports indicate the passenger movement charge (departure tax) is planned to increase from $70 to $80 for departures from January 1, 2027, as part of the federal budget measures. This would apply to all departures by air or sea and to most travelers, with certain exemptions remaining (e.g., children under a certain age, specific personnel, and due refunds in certain circumstances).[1]

• The change is described as a budget measure intended to raise additional revenue, with the higher charge applying regardless of when a ticket was booked, so travelers booking before the effective date but departing after would still face the increased amount.[1]

• Several sources and opinion/commentary videos from 2025–2026 discuss broader themes around Australian departure/residency and tax policy changes, including potential residency tests and broader tax reforms tied to leaving Australia. These sources emphasize that the regulatory landscape could affect expats and international travelers, though they are often opinion pieces or explanatory guides rather than official policy statements.[4][5][6][7]

• For official and up-to-date information, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and related government releases are the authoritative sources for confirmation of the departure tax schedule and exemptions, including any final legislative provisions and implementation dates.[10]

What this means for travelers

• If you’re departing Australia after January 1, 2027, you should expect to pay the higher passenger movement charge of $80 rather than $70, included in your ticket price or displayed on receipts.[1]
• If you’re planning travel or residency changes in 2026 or 2027, monitor official sources (ATO and government budget releases) for definitive guidance and any exemptions or refunds that may apply to your situation.[10]

Would you like me to pull the latest official government notices or summarize official statements from the ATO or Department of Home Affairs, and/or create a quick traveler checklist for departures after the 2027 change? I can also compare the 2027 departure tax with prior years to show how the cost has evolved.

Citations:

• Departure tax increase to $80 from 2027, covering all departures by air or sea.[1]
• Context on the budget nature and how it’s applied (departure date-based, not purchase date).[1]
• Official government/ATO sources for authoritative confirmation and updates.[10]