Australia's Busiest Holiday Travel: Police Surge as 23.4 Million Passengers Expected

December 23, 2025 at 11:51 AM•2 min read

The Australian Federal Police and Australian Border Force are surging officers to manage a record 23.4 million passengers in Australian airports, urging

Key Points

1Over 23.4 million domestic and international passengers are forecast across Australian airports in December and January, setting a new record.
2The Australian Federal Police (AFP) deployed over 500 uniformed officers to nine major airports to combat disruptive behavior and crime.
3Sydney Airport anticipates its international peak on January 3, 2026, with travelers advised to arrive three hours before international flights.
4AFP proactive operations hours increased by 28% in 2025, with a focus on intoxication and anti-social behavior during the peak season.

Australian airports are issuing warnings to travelers. They are preparing for the busiest travel period of the year. The Australian Airports Association (Australian Airports Association) forecasts a record surge. Over 23.4 million domestic and international passengers are expected. This high volume will occur across December and January.

Record Passenger Forecasts

Major hubs anticipate massive passenger numbers. Sydney Airport expects 5.84 million travelers. Melbourne Airport is preparing for over 2.5 million international arrivals. Brisbane Airport forecasts more than three million passengers. Sydney's international peak is expected on January 3, 2026, with over 65,000 travelers. Brisbane's busiest domestic day is forecast for January 26, 2026, as holidays end.

Security and Enforcement Surge

The Australian Federal Police (Australian Federal Police) is increasing its presence. More than 500 uniformed officers are deployed across nine designated airports. This airport security surge aims to ensure safe travel. AFP Acting Aviation Commander Josh Sinclair-Wadham confirmed the surge. He noted that increased passengers can lead to more anti-social behavior.

Police patrols will actively target disruptive passenger behavior. This includes intoxication, offensive actions, and prohibited items. Proactive operations hours are up 28% from 2024. Over 1,160 people were charged with 1,364 offenses this year. These offenses include drug crimes, theft, and acts of violence.

Airport and Border Force Advice

The Australian Border Force (Australian Border Force) has also surged officers. ABF Travel East Acting Commander Geoff Quinn warned of inevitable delays. He urged travelers to be patient with officers during processing.

Airport management echoed the need for careful planning. Passengers should allow extra time to navigate traffic and queues. Sydney Airport advises international travelers to arrive three hours early. Domestic travelers checking bags should allow two hours. This is crucial for smooth flight operation news and travel.

Arrive Early: International passengers need three hours prior to departure.
Be Patient: Delays are inevitable due to the high volume of December January passenger numbers.
Report Suspicion: Travelers can call the AFP's Airport Watch on 131 237.

Airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia are also preparing. They are adding staff and planes on standby to minimize disruption. All stakeholders are working to manage the Australian airport peak travel period. Anyone breaking the law will be dealt with swiftly by the courts.