Need your Australian passport quickly? This complete guide walks you through the process of applying for a passport in Australia, including standard, fast track, and priority options, with a full list of required documents and tips for a smooth application.
🕒 How Long Does It Take to Get an Australian Passport?
The standard processing time for an Australian passport is approximately 6 weeks. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can speed things up by choosing Fast Track or Priority Processing.
⚡ Fast Track Passport Australia
- Processing Time: Around 14 days total
- Additional Fee: $104
- Total Cost: $516
- Includes: 5-day processing once received
🚀 Priority Passport Australia
- Processing Time: Up to 11 days
- Additional Fee: $300
- Total Cost: $712
- Includes: 2-day processing once received
💡 Tip: Submit your application at a Passport RAPID location before 12 PM on a business day for same-day document delivery to the Passport Office.
📦 Passport Delivery Time After Approval
Once processed, it may take up to 5 business days for your passport to arrive. You can also collect it from your nearest Passport Office for faster access.
📄 Documents Required for an Australian Passport (Adult, Onshore)
When applying for an adult passport in Australia, you’ll need:
- Proof of Citizenship – Australian Citizenship Certificate
- Birth Certificate – Must be in English or officially translated
- Identity Documents – Your current passport and driver’s licence
- Referee Details – Full name, DOB, phone number, passport number, and address
- Only needed when applying online
- They don’t need to sign anything — just confirm your identity if contacted
- Two Recent Passport Photos
- Write your full name on the back of one photo
🌐 How to Apply for an Australian Passport Online
Follow these steps via the Australian Passport Office website:
- Go to passportapplication.gov.au
- Click “Apply or Renew”
- Create an account or sign in
- Click “Start Application”
- Complete the form using your prepared documents
- After submission, go to your dashboard and select “Go to Documents” → “Create Documents”
📥 Download and Print:
- Checklist – You need this for your Australia Post appointment
- Application Form (Record of Responses) – For your records only
📝 Your checklist includes your lodgement deadline, required documents, and total cost.
🖼️ Getting Passport Photos and Preparing the Checklist
You’ll need two compliant passport photos. I recommend:
- Visiting Australia Post for photos
- You will need to write your name on the back of one photo (required)
🏤 Submitting Your Australian Passport Application at Australia Post
You’ll submit your printed checklist and carry your original documents to a participating Australia Post outlet.
💸 Passport Costs in Australia (2025)
- Standard Processing: $412 (~6 weeks)
- Fast Track: $516 (~14 days)
- Priority Processing: $712 (~11 days)
- Payment: Made at AusPost during submission
📅 Appointment Recommended
While walk-ins sometimes work, it’s best to book an appointment. Make sure your local post office accepts passport applications.
🔍 Use this link to find a participating post office by entering your postcode or suburb. Scroll to see if it offers “Australian Passport” under “Popular Services.”
✅ Final Checklist Before You Apply
- Citizenship certificate
- Birth certificate
- ID (driver’s licence + passport)
- Referee details
- Two passport photos
- Printed checklist
- Appointment at AusPost
Once submitted, all that’s left is to wait for your passport — or collect it in person if eligible.
👋 Final Thoughts
Applying for an Australian passport doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you choose the standard 6-week route or an express option like fast track or priority processing, being prepared makes the process smooth.
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below!
