Liquids on flights from Australia: the 100 mL rule and the powder limit

Australia restricts liquids, aerosols, gels and certain powders in your carry-on bag on international flights. The limits do not apply to checked baggage or to most domestic flights.

When the limits apply

• When you depart Australia on an international flight
• When you transit through Australia from one country to another
• On the domestic leg of a flight that departs from an Australian international terminal
• Before you board an inbound flight at its last stop before Australia

Liquids, aerosols and gels

• Each container must be 100 mL (or 100 g) or less — a larger container is not allowed even if it is only partly full
• All containers must fit in one transparent, re-sealable plastic bag whose four sides add up to no more than 80 cm (for example 20 × 20 cm)
• One bag per passenger; you can carry bags for people in your care, including children
• Aerosols must have a cap or locking device

Spreads and soft foods count as liquids or gels. The official list includes Vegemite, peanut butter, honey and yoghurt — souvenirs that catch people out at the screening point.

Powders

Inorganic powders — such as salt, salt scrubs, sand and some talcum powders — must be in containers of 350 mL / 350 g or less, and the total per person must not exceed 350 mL / 350 g. Organic powders such as baby formula, coffee, protein powder, flour, spices and sugar have no limit. You may be asked to present powders separately at screening.

Exemptions

• Reasonable amounts of baby products
• Prescription and non-prescription medicines needed during the flight — you may need to show proof, such as a doctor's letter
• Medical devices and medical equipment

Duty free

Duty free liquids bought at the airport must stay in the sealed, tamper-evident bag they were packed in, together with the proof of purchase.

Source: Department of Home Affairs (TravelSECURE) — What you can and can't bring