A New South Wales woman has been charged after about $312,000 in suspected illicit cash was allegedly found in her hand luggage at Perth Airport.
The AFP charged the woman, 24, on 30 November, 2025, after she was allegedly stopped at the airport that day ahead of her planned departure on a flight to NSW.
An investigation began when Perth Airport security staff alerted the AFP after allegedly detecting a large amount of cash in the woman's carry-on suitcase as she passed through an x-ray screening point.
AFP officers attended and searched the woman's suitcase and allegedly found two black plastic bags which contained bundles of $50 and $100 notes.
The woman was charged with one count of dealing with proceeds of crime, contrary to section 400.9(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is three years' imprisonment.
She appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Monday, 1 December, 2025, and was remanded in custody to next appear in court on 5 December, 2025.
AFP Detective Inspector Matt Taylor said the AFP would continue to investigate how the woman came to be in possession of such a significant amount of cash.
"The AFP works closely with airport partners to protect the community and Australia's legitimate economy and ensure air travel is not used as part of the criminal supply chain," Det Insp Taylor said.
"The Perth Airport security team swiftly alerted the AFP of their discovery, which enabled us to stop the passenger from leaving the state.
"Anyone detected travelling in possession of significant amounts of unexplained cash will be investigated to determine whether the source of those funds is lawful."
Stop and think. A safe journey starts with you.
Every piece of information you provide could be the key to identifying and preventing a threat at our airports. That's why the AFP is asking you to adopt the 'See it. Hear it. Report it.' approach.
Behaviours to report include:
- Taking photos of security cameras, screening, or perimeter fencing
- Avoiding screening
- Leaving bags unattended
- Loitering
- Concealing identity
- Exhibiting erratic behaviour
If you see it, or hear it, report it to Airport Watch at 131 237 (131 AFP).
You can make a difference!
