International travellers can now get quick advice about the new rules for taking liquids, aerosols and gels on to international flights by ringing 1300 791 581.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, announced the hotline number at the launch of the public information campaign for the new rules, which take effect on 31 March 2007.
"The new rules are needed to protect airline passengers from the threat of a terrorist attack using liquid explosives. I urge passengers who are flying overseas from 31 March to find out about the new rules by talking to their airline or travel agent, visiting www.dotars.gov.au or by phoning the hotline," Mr Vaile said.
"The Government is printing 14 million brochures about the new rules in English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Malay and distributing them to airports, 4,500 travel agents and 340 duty free and tax shops. There will also be posters at airports and resealable plastic bags for passengers who havent heard about the restrictions."
"More than 1,900 security screeners have now completed their training in the new rules. They will be Australias front line of defence against a terrorist attack using liquid explosives."
"Under the new rules, which only apply to international flights: