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.
Neither threshold on this route is a cap: you may carry more, but above it the duty is to report the cash, not to keep under the figure. 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.