Australian Border Force (ABF)
Statutory definition
The Australian Border Force Act 2015 (Cth) established the Australian Border Force and the position of ABF Commissioner. ABF officers exercise powers conferred by the Migration Act 1958, the Customs Act 1901, and related legislation.
Explanation
The Australian Border Force (ABF) was established in 2015, integrating customs and immigration enforcement functions previously split between the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service and the Department of Immigration. The ABF operates under the authority of the Department of Home Affairs.
ABF officers have powers under the Migration Act to detain unlawful non-citizens (s 189), conduct compliance operations, enforce departures and removals (s 198), and board and search vessels in relation to maritime arrivals. ABF officers at airports and seaports exercise clearance powers for arriving and departing passengers.
How this term is used
Interactions with ABF officers at the border (airports, seaports, and mail centres) form part of the immigration clearance process. The Migration Act grants ABF officers powers to ask questions and examine documents. A non-citizen must answer questions about their identity and visa status when required.