The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has released Australia’s next-generation passport, the ‘R Series’.
Launching the new-look passport (pictured), the Department said it was even more secure than the ‘P Series’ passport, which has been issued to Australian travellers since 2014.
“In an Australian first, the R Series has a high security photo page made of layered plastic, making the passport harder to forge and less susceptible to damage,” DFAT said.
“The R Series includes advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting and identity theft, and ultimately, keep Australians safe,” it said.
“The visa pages show 17 iconic Australian landscapes in spectacular true colour.”
DFAT said the R Series was now being rolled out in stages, with some customers to receive the previous P Series until the end of the year.
It said that from early 2023, all customers would receive an R Series passport.
“Both passports are highly secure documents, and work in the same way at airport SmartGates,” the Department said.
“DFAT encourages Australians to plan well ahead of their intended travel dates, including checking their passport’s expiry,” it said.
“If you’re likely to travel in the next six months – for example, during the upcoming summer holiday period – you should apply or renew now,” the Department said.
