Australia’s SmartGate technology is becoming more family-friendly, as it now extends its ease and efficiency to younger travellers. From this week, children and teenagers holding ePassports will find it easier to enter the country using this automated system.
The Australian Border Force (ABF), which manages airport security and customs processes, announced that children as young as seven can now use the Arrival SmartGates. This reduction in the eligible age, from the previous limit, aims to make travel easier for families. The minimum height requirement remains at 1.1 meters.
This update aligns with broader efforts to improve the effectiveness of national border management. Arrival SmartGates employ advanced facial recognition technology in conjunction with the data stored in ePassports to verify a traveller’s identity. This improves the accuracy and speed of the customs and immigration process.
The recent advancements also see an upgrade in the technology across eight Australian international airports. This new third-generation technology enhances the operational effectiveness of ABF officers and shortens the overall cycle time for travellers.
The process for children using SmartGates is straightforward. It involves two steps, with the parent or legal guardian answering required questions on the child’s behalf at a kiosk, before moving to the SmartGate for facial recognition and final clearance.
ABF Commander Belinda Conn shared, “The ABF continues to invest in new technologies and improvements to border security and traveller self-service. While we recognise not all passengers will have a seamless journey, we know it’s about listening to what we can improve and progress – providing convenience and consistency for families is something which should deliver more efficiencies for staff and passengers alike.
“With planning underway to extend our Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) digital pilot to Sydney Airport, we are excited to continue to modernising our border clearance experience for global travellers choosing Australia or citizens returning home.
“As always, our ABF officers will be available and on the ground to assist travellers who may have questions or might require further assistance with the two-step process.”
ABF has also introduced an educational mascot, ‘Sammy the SmartGate Dog’, at entry points. Sammy helps in determining if children meet the height requirements to use the SmartGate. This interactive element adds a friendly touch to the travel experience, particularly for families.
This update to the SmartGate system really reflects Australia’s commitment to embracing technology while making a secure and efficient border control process. It aligns with international trends in travel facilitation and promises a smoother, more accessible arrival experience for families visiting or returning to Australia.
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