An Australian passport is a vital travel document that allows Australian citizens to travel internationally and serves as proof of citizenship. Whether you are applying for your first passport or renewing an existing one, the process of obtaining an Australian passport is relatively straightforward. The Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), oversees the issuance of passports. This guide outlines the steps to obtain an Australian passport, eligibility requirements, the necessary documentation, and the associated fees.

Eligibility for an Australian Passport

To apply for an Australian passport, you must be an Australian citizen. There are two main categories of applicants:

1. Adult Applicants:
   Australian citizens aged 18 or older can apply for an adult passport. First-time applicants need to provide proof of citizenship and identity.
2. Children Under 18:
   Parents or guardians can apply for a child passport for Australian citizens under 18 years of age. Special requirements, including consent from both parents, apply to child passport applications.

If you are applying for your first passport, you will need to provide proof of Australian citizenship, such as a birth certificate for those born in Australia, or a citizenship certificate for naturalized citizens. For renewing a passport, the process is simpler as you only need to provide your expiring or expired passport.

Steps to Obtain an Australian Passport

Here are the steps to apply for an Australian passport:

1. Complete the Passport Application Form

The first step in obtaining an Australian passport is to complete the appropriate application form. DFAT offers two main types of forms:

• Form PC7: This is for renewing an existing passport, provided it has expired within the last three years or is still valid. This process is simpler as it does not require proof of identity or citizenship (since this was established when the original passport was issued).
• Form PC8: This form is used for first-time passport applications, replacing a lost or stolen passport, or if the previous passport expired more than three years ago. Additional documentation will be required with this form.

You can fill out the application online by visiting the Australian Passport Office website. After completing the form, you will need to print it and sign it in the presence of an authorized witness.

2. Gather Required Documents

You will need to provide supporting documents with your application, depending on whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing one. Required documents include:

• Proof of Australian Citizenship:
  This could be an Australian birth certificate for individuals born in Australia or a citizenship certificate for naturalized citizens.
• Proof of Identity:
  Applicants must provide identity documents, such as a driver’s license, Medicare card, or other government-issued IDs.
• Expired or Expiring Passport (for renewals):
  If you are renewing your passport, you must submit your previous passport.

3. Obtain Passport Photos

You will need to submit two identical, recent passport-sized photos that meet the specific requirements set by DFAT. The photos must be professionally printed, with a neutral expression, and no glasses or head coverings unless for religious reasons. The back of one photo must be signed by an authorized guarantor, who must meet DFAT’s criteria.

4. Find an Authorized Guarantor

A guarantor is required to sign your passport application and one of your passport photos. The guarantor must be an Australian citizen who has known you for at least 12 months. They cannot be related to you or live at the same address.

5. Submit Your Application

Once you have completed the application form, gathered the necessary documents, and obtained your passport photos, you need to submit your application. You can lodge the application in person at an Australia Post outlet, Australian Passport Office, or Australian consulate or embassy if applying from overseas.

6. Pay the Application Fee

The fee for an Australian passport varies depending on the type of passport and the applicant’s age. Child passports and senior passports (issued to citizens over 75) are less expensive.

7. Processing Time

Once your application is submitted, the typical processing time is around 3 weeks. If you need the passport urgently, DFAT offers expedited processing for an additional fee, with priority processing usually taking 2 business days.