Being separated from loved ones during Rakhi can be difficult and the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) acknowledges the unique bond shared by siblings and loved ones overseas, and the importance of celebrating Rakhi on time. So they urge you to make overseas family and friends quarantine-aware to avoid delays with the arrival of your gifts.

 AQIS recognises the importance of this festival which is one of the most powerful affirmations experienced by Hindu brothers and sisters through the exchange of traditional gifts in celebration of love and togetherness. That’s why it’s committed to processing international mail in a timely manner to ensure that your special gifts are received in time.

 “The lead up to Rakhi has shown that it is common for well meaning overseas family and friends to send not only their prayers, but also quarantine risk items that can be detrimental to the Australian environment. All international mail is assessed, x-rayed or checked by detector dogs, and packages containing risk items are opened and inspected” said Ms Caroline Martin, Program Manager, AQIS International Mail Program.

 Quarantine risk items include Rakhi threads made with seeds or flowers; traditional Indian sweets made with mithai or milk products such as barfi, mysore pak, gulab jamun, rasgulla, pedas or soan-papdi; grains; and dried fruits.

 “To ensure the auspicious occasion of Rakhi is celebrated on time AQIS endeavours to keep processing delays to a minimum but this is difficult when mail contains risk items as they require further processing which leads to lengthy delays. But you can avoid these delays if you tell friends and family overseas not to send gifts containing quarantine risk items—as gifts with no risk items are processed much faster. So talk to your friends and family overseas and have your gift in time for Rakhi, which will certainly make the day much more enjoyable,” said Ms Martin.

 AQIS wishes all siblings a joyous Rakhi; a celebration of the continued tradition signifying love and good wishes, and much enjoyment of their Rakhi gifts.

 For more information :

• Visit the AQIS website www.aqis.gov.au/rakhi
  • download the brochure ‘What Can’t be Mailed to Australia?’
  • call AQIS on 1800 020 504 (free call in Australia and is in English).

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