Morrison announces review of border fees

Airport departure fees and the cost of visa applications could increase with a review of border charges.

Border agencies collect $3 billion in fees and charges every year, making it the the biggest "tax collector" outside of the Australian Taxation Office.

The review will look at ways to consolidate and improve existing border fees, charges and taxes.

Under the microscope are the passenger movement charge - the old departure tax - as well as import processing fees and visa application charges.

However, customs duty and the GST will not be considered.

Immigration Minister Scott Morrison says it costs $6 billion each year to administer Australia's borders.

"We must ensure that border fees and charges do not provide a disincentive to trade and travel that adds value to our economy," he said.

However, wherever possible the costs of facilitating the movement of goods and people needed to be recovered to avoid burdening taxpayers.