Are you really collecting a prison sentence?
Did you know criminal syndicates are targeting international students like you to help them smuggle parcels containing illicit substances into the country?

More and more students like yourself are being tricked into collecting parcels that are found to contain drug precursors. Precursors are a range of substances, such as pseudoephedrine, used in the manufacture of illicit drugs. Importing them intoAustralia is illegal. If parcels you receive are found to contain illicit substances, you will be caught and you will be held liable for their contents.

Beware of being approached on the Internet or a bulletin board to accept a parcel for money. Do not answer an advertisement you are unsure of. What might seem like a quick and easy way to make money could involve you in a serious crime resulting in your imprisonment for up to 15 years, and a fine of up to $330,000, or both.

Recently a 21 year old male living in Australia on a student visa was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for collecting a parcel containing illegal substances and assisting with the importation of a precursor. Following his jail term the student is likely to be deported.

Make sure this doesn’t happen to you. Don’t accept a parcel that contains illicit substances or other prohibited goods, this will affect your study program in Australiaand your future. A criminal conviction will follow you and may affect your freedom to travel to and study in other countries.

Customs and Border Protection takes the matter of students accepting parcels on behalf of unknown persons very seriously. If you or someone you know is approached to participate in this unlawful activity, call Customs Watch on 1800 06 1800. This call can be made anonymously.

Be aware and say NO to receiving packages for an unknown person.