Federal budget's fast-track passport promise explained
One of the more eye-catching items in last night's federal budget was the revelation people could fast-track a new passport application - for a fee.
From July 1 this year, people will be able to pay an extra $100 to see their application processed within five business days.
The budget papers predicted the initiative would gather $27.4 million in five years, which would be directed to other government services.
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Key figures in the federal budget. Graphic: Polly Hanning
It costs $346 to apply for a 10-year-passport for a person aged 16 or over.
The government says people should allow up to six weeks for processing.
Assistant Minister for the Treasury Andrew Leigh, in a speech today, said delays in passport processing had been the result of an "understaffed" public service.
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The five-day option is something of a middle way for scrambling, would-be travellers.
The option already exists for people to pay a larger fee of $252 to have their application processed in two business days.
People pay the fee either when lodging their application, or afterwards by contacting 131 232.
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It's worth keeping in mind that the processing time does not begin from when an application is lodged, but when it's received on the other end.
Australia Post Passport RAPID locations can get the application packets into the hands of processors faster.
Visit the Australian Passport Office website for more information.
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