Need a new passport? You’ll want to submit those documents pronto, as Australia’s trusty blue travel book is about to get pricier in the New Year. Sure, we have one of the most powerful passports on the planet, but we also carry the weight of the world’s most expensive – and this latest price hike isn’t making it any easier on the wallet.
Currently, Aussies pay $412 for the ten-year travel book, granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185 destinations around the world. From January 1, 2026, passport application fees will rise by $5 to $10, reflecting the annual adjustments tied to changes in the Consumer Price Index.
In 2023, a ten-year Australian passport cost $325. With a potential $10 hike in 2026, that’s nearly a $100 increase in just three years.
However, to put things in perspective: the Australian passport works out to be around $42 per year for the freedom to travel (almost) anywhere in the world – we think that's still a solid investment. You’ll just have to travel more to get better bang for your buck! Start with our ultimate guide to the best places in Australia.