Senator Ellison said the acquisition of the new technology had been funded through the Howard Government s Tough on Drugs Strategy. It will save business a great deal of time in processing goods through customs controls, as well as significantly increasing Customs ability to detect illegal and prohibited goods such as illicit drugs. Senator Ellison said the new technology would also greatly assist Customs to meet increased inspection measures announced as part of the 2001-02 Budget to prevent foot and mouth disease from entering Australia. The X-ray system will allow Customs to make up to 100 physical inspections each day, and will be used in conjunction with Customs electronic profiling capabilities. Senator Ellison said the x-ray system was expected to be operational in early 2002.
Media Note electronic photographs of illegal items detected by the x-ray technology are available.
This information is intended as a guide.