Australia’s $412 passport is officially the most expensive passport in the world. New research by Contiki and YouGov reveals that this hefty price tag is holding back many Australians from traveling.
A survey of 1,017 Gen Z and Millennials in Australia showed that while 94% of young people want to travel overseas, for one in five, the cost of getting a passport is a significant obstacle, and one in seven young Australians (around 1.4 million) don’t currently hold a valid passport.
The expense of passports is clearly impacting travel plans with two in five Gen Z and Millennials say they’ve delayed, canceled, or reconsidered travel due to the cost of obtaining one.
To help make overseas travel more accessible, Contiki is offering to cover the $412 passport fee for “unpassported” travelers who book a valid European 2026 trip before December 25.
Contiki’s 2026 European trips—ranging from the European Adventurer to Greek Island Hopping are tailored for Gen Z and Millennials seeking authentic experiences, new friendships, and unforgettable adventures.
By removing the passport cost barrier, Contiki is helping more young Australians turn their dream of European travel into a reality.
“The research shows us that young Australians have a huge appetite for travel, they just need a little help getting started,” said Toni Ambler, Chief Customer Officer for Contiki.
The survey revealed that:
● 85% of Gen Z and Millennial Australians without an Australian passport would book an overseas trip if they had one for free, with many ready to travel within months.
● 71% of young Australians without a passport believe the cost of an Australian passport is too high.
● Nearly half (49%) of young Australians were unaware that their passport is the most expensive in the world.
For more details on how to book one of these trips, visit https://www.contiki.com/en-au/activity/passports.
