Carrying cash from Germany to Australia
Two separate rules apply to any cash journey: one where you leave, one where you arrive.
Do you need to declare?
Yes: and on both legs of the journey. Leaving Germany, Germany customs authority (EU cash controls) requires a declaration above EUR 10,000. Entering Australia, AUSTRAC requires a declaration above AUD 10,000. The two rules are independent: satisfying one does not satisfy the other.
The two legs
| Leg | Limit | Form | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Germany | EUR 10,000 | EU Cash Declaration Form | Germany customs authority (EU cash controls) |
| Entering Australia | AUD 10,000 | Cross-Border Movement: Physical Currency Form | AUSTRAC |
Applies when leaving the EU for a non-EU country.
Declare A$10,000 or more moving into Australia, counting Australian and foreign currency together.
If you do not declare
Germany: Cash may be detained and penalties applied under national law.
Australia: Significant fines; undeclared cash may be seized.
There is no limit on how much you may legally carry in either direction, the duty is to report it, not to keep under it. Failing to report is the offence.
Currencies
Germany uses EUR; Australia uses AUD.
Sources: rules as of 22 September 2026. This is general information, not legal advice; always check the official authority before travelling.