A travel charge most Australians don't know they pay is rising again
The budget included a further increase on a long-standing hidden tax affecting Australian travellers.
www.sbs.com.auHere’s the latest I can confirm publicly about Australia’s Passenger Movement Charge (PMC) and any recent increases.
Key points
- The PMC is the departure tax Australians pay when leaving the country on international flights or sea transport. It has been regularly adjusted in line with budgets and policy updates.[5][6]
- A recent budget cycle indicated a proposed increase, with reports noting a rise to 70 USD/AUD (currency varies by reporting) from 60–70 in earlier years, depending on the effective date, and further adjustments proposed for future years.[6][5]
- Multiple outlets in 2026 discussed a planned escalation of the PMC, including a scheduled increase to 80 in 2027, with the government citing revenue needs and border management considerations. This was described as applying to departures after the specified effective date, including both residents and visitors.[3][7]
- Industry groups have voiced concerns that higher PMC costs could dampen outbound travel demand and impact tourism-related activity, given sensitivity to travel costs.[9][3]
Recent developments by source
- The Australian government announced a PMC increase as part of the budget, aiming to raise additional revenue from departures. The exact timing and amount have varied in reporting, but a notable 10 increase to reach 70 (and future steps toward 80) has been highlighted by several outlets.[3][6][9]
- Some outlets confirm an upcoming rise to 80 in January 2027, with the increase applying to all departures after that date, irrespective of ticket booking timing.[3]
What this means for travelers
- If you’re planning international travel from Australia, expect the PMC to add to your outbound costs. Depending on the exact effective date, you may see the charge increase in steps (e.g., from 70 to 80 in 2027).[7][3]
- The PMC is a fixed per-passenger charge, so family groups and travelers with multiple tickets will see the cumulative effect across bookings.[6]
Illustrative example
- A family of four departing Australia after the 2027 date could see a noticeable increase in total departure costs due to the PMC rising to 80 per person, multiplied by the number of passengers on the itinerary.[7][3]
Citations
- Travel industry coverage of PMC increases and budget context[1]
- Global departure tax trends and Australia’s PMC changes[2]
- SBS explanation of the PMC rise and 2027 timeline[3]
- Budget documents and official measures on PMC adjustments[5]
- Australian Frequent Flyer discussions of PMC increases and timing[6]
- Mogaz coverage of the 2027 PMC upgrade to 80[7]
- ATA travel industry insights on the PMC impact[9]
If you’d like, I can narrow this to the most authoritative official source (e.g., Treasury or government budget papers) and pull the exact figures and dates as they stand today.