Inshorts
Reach the airport at least 3 hours early for Australia to India travel.
GST tax refund is available for eligible purchases above AUD 300 from one store through the TRS at Australian airports.
All carry-on baggage undergoes security screening at airport checkpoints, including body scanners and other methods used by screening officers.
Australian airports enforce strict security rules managed by airport workers and Australian Border Force (ABF) officers.
SIM cards are available at all terminals.
International roaming plans vary by provider; mobile phones must be screened at the security point.
Duty-free GST refunds are possible under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) with a valid tax invoice bearing the same Australian business number.
Passengers should check flight status online and complete the incoming passenger card as required by the Australian government department.
A Simple Airport Guide for Indians Flying Home
Whether you are a student, family traveller, or a working professional, Australia to India flights always brings excitement. This Sydney airport guide, Melbourne airport guide, and Brisbane airport guide is written especially for India-bound travellers Australia who want clarity, comfort, and a smooth airport experience.
Sydney Airport Guide
Sydney Airport is one of the busiest airports for flights to India, serving major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. It handles many international passengers daily and offers facilities such as duty-free shopping, dining, and public transport access. The airport has three terminals: T1 for international flights, T2 for domestic flights mainly by Jetstar and Virgin Australia, and T3 for Qantas domestic flights. Walking between terminals is not possible; shuttle or train services connect them.
Reach 3 hours before departure.
Keep your passport, ticket, and India e-Visa ready.
SIM cards at Sydney Airport are available at Vodafone, Optus, and Telstra counters.
International roaming Australia plans can be activated before departure.
Clear security early if travelling in a group; it reduces stress and ensures stress-free group travel. The TRS counter is located near the Heinemann Duty Free entrance in the international terminal.
Sydney Airport provides special assistance for travelers with visual impairments or other needs.
At the security screening point, passengers may be asked to remove medical devices or baby food for separate screening, as these items require special handling due to known health risks and safety regulations.
After security, passengers proceed to passport control before boarding at the boarding gate.
Melbourne Airport Guide
Melbourne Airport offers facilities for international travellers, including counters for oversized baggage and duty-free shops. The airport enforces strict security protocols with mandatory body scanner screening. SIM card shops and clear signage help ensure a smooth travel experience. Baggage claim areas are located at the arrivals level of each terminal. The airport also provides clear information on baggage allowance to help passengers prepare for their flights and avoid extra fees.
Separate counters exist for oversized baggage like extra suitcases for India trips and items such as golf clubs, which require special handling and must be processed with border authorities before check-in.
Duty-free stores are available for chocolates, perfumes, and gifts.
Airport security body scanner Australia is mandatory and safe. Screening officers are available to assist passengers with security procedures, including body scans and other checks.
SIM card shops open early in the morning.
Keep your liquids under 100 ml in carry-on bags.
Brisbane Airport Guide
Brisbane Airport offers a smooth experience for India-bound travellers, with clear signage, helpful staff, lounges, dining options, and free Wi-Fi. Taxis and rideshare services are available at all terminals with designated pick-up zones, making navigation and travel convenient.
Good food options available before immigration.
GST refund counters (TRS offices) are located near the departure gate.
If the TRS counter is closed, travelers can submit their claim forms using the drop box provided at the TRS offices.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the terminal.
For a flight from Brisbane to Delhi or Mumbai, extra time should be kept for security and bag checks.
Airport customs India-bound travellers should carry prescriptions for medicines over 100 ml and declare any dangerous goods or gas cylinders as per regulations.
Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) and GST Refund at Australia Airport
If you purchased gadgets, clothes, skincare, or electronics worth over AUD 300 from one store, you can claim a GST refund through the Australian Government’s Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS). Managed by the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force, TRS lets travellers reclaim GST paid on eligible purchases. To qualify, present a valid tax invoice with the same Australian business number and carry the goods in your carry-on luggage when leaving Australia, including when departing from an external Australian territory.
Keep all original tax invoices safe; they are required for the TRS claim process.
The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) allows refunds on Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET).
TRS officers assist travelers at the TRS facility near international departures.
Australian citizens, Australian residents, and overseas visitors may be eligible if they meet requirements.
You can lodge a TRS claim via Mobile or Web Applications (TRS app) using a QR code (TRS claim code) for faster processing.
Refunds are paid to an Australian bank account, credit card, or by cheque.
Refund amounts are based on tax paid and total price of eligible goods.
Some goods and services are GST free goods and not refundable.
Goods may be subject to security screening and other checks during TRS claims.
Keep tax invoices and products in your cabin bags.
Reach the TRS counter at least 45 minutes before boarding.
The airport GST refund process Australia requires showing your passport, boarding pass, and items.
SIM Cards at Australian Airports
Buying a SIM card at the airport makes your trip to India easier and more convenient. Available at all terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, they offer short-term data, call, and SMS plans for international travellers. Sydney Airport also provides free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout all terminals to keep you connected while waiting for your flight.
Available at all terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Plans include short-term data, calls, SMS, and roaming for India.
If you want more convenience, buy SIM cards at Australian airports before security.
Airport Security Tips for India Flights
Australian airports enforce strict security screening to ensure safety. Trained officers manage the process, which includes body scanners, hand-held metal detectors, and removing outerwear and items from pockets. Additional methods like manual searches, frisk searches, explosive trace detection, and other screening methods may be used. Passengers must follow all instructions for a smooth experience. Body scanners are the Government’s preferred screening method at international airports.
Remove laptops, tablets, and mobile phones from your bag. Explosive trace detection may be used on passengers or their belongings during this step.
Liquids must be under 100 ml. A frisk search may be conducted if required.
Follow airport security body scanner Australia instructions.
Carry power banks in cabin bags only. Space and stowage constraints may affect what can be brought as carry-on items.
Other carry on baggage, such as strollers or pet carriers, may require separate screening depending on the item and circumstances.
Passenger screening and the overall security screening process are mandatory for all travelers.
FAQs
Is GST refund available at all three airports?
Yes, GST refund Australia airport counters operate at Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Can I buy a SIM card at Sydney Airport?
Yes, Vodafone, Optus, and Telstra counters are open in the international terminal.
Are body scanners mandatory?
Yes, airport security body scanner Australia rules apply to all travellers.
Can I carry food on flights to India?
Yes, but try to carry easy to handle dry sweets or snacks.
Do I need a visa to travel to India from Australia?
Most travellers use India e-Visa. OCI/PIO card holders do not need a visa.
What is the best time to reach the airport?
Arrive 3 hours before your scheduled departure.
Conclusion
Travelling from Australia to India becomes easy when you know the basic rules about security, roaming, GST refunds, and airport facilities. Whether you fly from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, planning your airport journey early ensures comfort and peace of mind. If you need help planning flights from Australia to India, or require support with bookings, feel free to reach out to Mann Travel for guidance.
