Melbourne Customs

[superstarshah]

On average how long has it taken you to get out from Melbbourne customs.
I'm flying in on a wednesday afternoon, just wondering how long ill have to wait in customs.

Thanks

[Evan]

From pulling up at the gate to in a taxi (Or as i like to say taxi-way to taxi), I usually take 15 minutes with no bags and priority card, 20-25 if i have priority tagged bags.
Thats usually the morning rush, i think the afternoon is quieter.
I don't stop for duty free i already have it.

But as a more general rule for most people with bags i would say around 30-40 minutes. If somebody is picking you up maybe err on the slightly longer time and have a coffee if they are still 10 minutes away when you call them to say your out.

E

[superstarshah]

Thanks i need to attend a function almost as soon as i land. So im playing on taking no luggage except hand luggage carry-on and therefore nothing to declare

[Evan]

Who are you flying and from where ? and in what cabin or are you say a QF platinum ?
Australian e-passport ?

All these make a small difference, but if you carry-on only etc you should breeze through regardless.

E

[superstarshah]

Flying Air New Zealand from Auckland

[munitalP]

At MEL, allow 45-50 minutes on a good day. If the luggage handlers are playing up, add. If it is raining, add.

Mr!

[notzac]

It really varies. I've gotten through in 10 minutes (non-existent ePassport queue, no checked luggage and express arrivals card. Walked up to the Customs officer directing people, have the express card taken from me and then "You've ticked food, what are you declaring?" "Chocolate." "Out that way, sir") - I've also had the same thing take an hour, due to the "smart gate" facilities not working and being directed through one of the xray queues.

Best of luck!

[superstarshah]

Thanks if it makes any difference - im on NZ passport, and have no luggage except carry on which will be just my passports and wallet.
I land at 5.30pm
Event at telstra dome at 8pm start

[superstarshah]

Also whats traffic like at that time(whenever i get out of customs ie. 5.45pm -7pm) from Tullamarine to Telstra Dome, Docklands

[Evan]

Traffic will probably be bad but i would not be worried about making an 8pm event. I think that is plenty of time, or do you need to check into a hotel or something first ?

E