Ranked the 7th most powerful in the world by the Passport Index, an Australian passport is your gateway to global adventures. If you’re applying for an Australian passport for the first time—or it’s time for a renewal—here’s everything you need to know.
The moment you start planning an overseas trip, check your passport’s expiry date. Renewing or applying for a new Australian passport takes time and money, so it pays to be prepared. Here’s everything you need to know about the process.
Please note: all information was correct as of 24 September 2025. Find all official passport information on the Australian Passport Office website.
General Australian passport information
How old do you have to be to have a passport?
There are two types of Australian passports: adult or child. A child passport is available for anyone under 18 and is usually lodged by a parent or guardian, though exceptions exist for those who are married or living independently. Adult passports are typically valid for ten years, while Australians aged 75 and over have the option of renewing for five years instead.
How do I apply for an Australian passport?
To apply for an Australian passport, you’ll need to complete an application form online through the Australian Passport Office website or pick one up at an Australia Post outlet. Once filled out, you must lodge the application in person at a participating Australia Post office, where your identity documents and passport photos will be checked. First-time applicants and children generally need an interview, while renewals are usually simpler. You’ll also pay the applicable fee at the time of lodgement. After processing, your new passport will be mailed directly to you.
Where is my closest passport office?
There are eight passport offices in Australia. Unless you are going to pick up a passport, you need to make an appointment before attending. These passport offices are in:
Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Full addresses and opening hours can be found the Australian Passport Office website.
If you’re applying from overseas, you’ll need to go to an embassy or consulate. These are normally in a country’s capital city, but you can find a full list of international embassies and consulates on DFAT.gov.au.
Passport fees
Different Australian passports have different costs. Find out how much you’ll have to pay when you apply for your next one.
How much does an Australian passport cost?
As of September 2025, these are the current fees for an Australian passport.
Passport | Fee |
|---|---|
Adult Passport (10 year validity) | $412 |
Child passport (under 16 years old, 5 year validity) | $208 |
Adult passport (over 75 years old, 5 year validity) | $208 |
Replacement passport | $259 |
Additional fees like priority processing ($300/2-days, $104/5-days) may apply if you need an expedited service.
When do you need an Australian passport?
Many of us take a passport to the airport by default, but which flights need one? And will you need it beforehand?
Do you need a passport to travel on domestic flights?
In Australia, you do not need a passport for domestic flights, but you do need a form of valid ID. This can be your passport, but you can use another form of ID like your driving license.
Do you need a passport to book an international flight?
As well as needing a passport to step onto an international flight, many carriers now require you to enter your passport details when booking a flight. If you’ve already booked a flight and you get a replacement passport, you will be able to update your details with the airline.
Some countries require six months of passport validity. Find out which so you can be sure to renew in time.
Lost and stolen passports
Losing your passport when you need it most is a traveller’s nightmare. Find out what to do when you can’t find your passport.
What should you do if your passport is lost or stolen while in Australia?
If you can’t find your passport, either because it’s lost or it’s stolen, you should report it immediately. You can do this by calling 131 232 or by visiting your closest Australian passport office. You may need to make an appointment. To replace your passport, you can start your application online at passports.gov.au.
What should you do if your Australian passport is lost or stolen when overseas?
Losing a passport overseas can be a hassle, but knowing that you should visit your nearest embassy or consulate service is a good first step towards your passport renewal. You will also need to pay the $259 overseas replacement fee and the overseas surcharge fee ($184 for adults, $90 for children).
Passport renewal
Find out how, where and when to apply for a new passport.
What’s the process for passport renewal?
Passport applications can be started online at Australia Passport Office website but you must complete the process in person. This can be done at an Australian Post Office or at a consulate. If you are overseas, you may have to travel to your nearest Australian Embassy.
Can your Australian passport renewal be done online?
You cannot renew your Australian passport online. Although you can begin your passport application online to save time, all passport applications have to be lodged in person. This ensures a high level of security for Australia and allows us access to visa-free travel in many parts of the world.
Timeframes for Australian passports
Need a passport in a hurry? Find out how long passport renewal takes and how much it costs to speed up the process.
How long does it take for passport renewal in Australia?
The Australian Passport Office posts estimated passport times on their website which will give you a timeframe based on the type of passport you're applying for. As a rule, you'll want to allow at least six weeks. That’s the case whether the old one has expired, been lost or been stolen. However, in some cases, you may be able to pay an extra fee of $104 (5-day) or $300 (2-day) expedited service. You'll need to have all your documents in place.
What’s the quickest you can get a passport renewed?
As long as you’re in Australia, you can pay a $300 surcharge to ensure that your passport renewal is completed in two business days. You can then pick it up from your nearest passport office or wait for it to be posted to you (in around one week).
When should you start the passport renewal process?
While you can renew your passport at any time, doing it too early will mean you pay before you really need to. To keep your travel options active, you should aim to complete passport renewal applications nine to 12 months before it’s due to expire as some countries require at least six months of validity. Passports can be renewed once they’ve expired, but only within three years of their expiry date.
