Proposed ABF Payment Changes Aim to Strengthen Import Security
The Australian Border Force (ABF) is considering new measures designed to improve the security and integrity of Australia’s import processes — particularly around how Customs Duty and GST payments are handled.
Currently, many customs brokerages make electronic payments on behalf of importers. Under a proposed change, this responsibility would shift directly to cargo owners. Importers would provide their banking details straight to the ABF and receive advance notification of any duty or GST debits linked to their shipments.
Why the Change?
The goal is simple — reduce fraud, identity misuse, and illegal “piggyback” consignments.
Piggyback shipments occur when unauthorised or illicit goods are added under the details of legitimate importers without their knowledge. This can lead to unexpected charges, delays, investigations, and potential reputational damage for businesses doing nothing wrong.
By giving importers direct visibility and control over payments, the ABF aims to:
Increase transparency
Strengthen security
Reduce identity theft risks
Prevent misuse of importer details
Minimise financial and reputational impacts on legitimate businesses
Practical Benefits for Importers
One of the key advantages of this proposal is that it can be implemented without changes to the existing Integrated Cargo System (ICS), meaning disruption to normal processes should be minimal.
The ABF is also considering introducing the change first within the sea freight environment, where piggyback activity is more commonly detected, before expanding into air cargo and express freight.
What This Means for Your Business
If introduced, importers may need to:
Register banking details directly with ABF
Monitor debit notifications
Approve or flag unusual activity
Take a more hands-on role in duty and tax payments
While this represents a shift in process, it offers greater control and protection for businesses managing international trade.
How ICS Global Logistics Can Help
At ICS Global Logistics, we stay across regulatory updates so our clients don’t have to. If these changes move forward, our team will guide you through the transition, ensure compliance, and help streamline your payment processes.
Because strong supply chains aren’t just about moving freight — they’re about protecting your business every step of the way.
If you have questions about customs payments or upcoming regulatory changes, contact our team today.
Contact our team via email at ics@icsgloballogistics.com. For direct inquiries, you can call us on (07) 3387 9500.