'Incredibly reckless': gun parts, bullets found in passenger's carry on bag

The 62-year-old New Zealander allegedly attempted to leave Australia from the Gold Coast International Airport on September 4 with checked bags and carry-on filled with bullets and firearm parts.

Australian Border Force (ABF) said it was rare to find guns and ammunition in luggage but it was "illegal and incredibly dangerous".

"It is incredibly reckless to attempt to bring such items on board a commercial airliner. Exporting firearms parts and accessories without a permit is illegal," ABF superintendent Amanda Coppleman said.

"I would like to thank the airline for their assistance, and commend the ABF officers involved in de-risking the situation swiftly."

The man, when questioned by airport staff, allegedly removed 200 bullets and 65 shotgun shells from a plastic-taped parcel.

He was then found to be carrying an additional 290 projectiles and shell casings, a bolt internal magazine, trigger and trigger guard, firing pin and two firearm stocks in his carry-on luggage.

ABF officers allegedly found three firearm barrels and three bags of ammunition wadding in his checked bags.

The man was arrested for attempting to export Tier 2 goods, firearms and accessories, from Australia. He was granted bail to appear at the Southport Magistrates Court on September 18.

The maximum penalty for importing or exporting firearms parts or accessories is $782,500 in addition to a potential prison sentence of 10 years.

Anyone with information about suspicious border activities is urged to contact Border Watch at Australia.gov.au/borderwatch. Reports can be made anonymously.