An Italian woman has been caught allegedly trying to smuggle $1.1 million worth of cocaine into Melbourne in her suitcase.
The 39-year-old woman arrived at Melbourne International Airport from Rome on Sunday.
Border security officers selected the woman for a baggage examination.
An X-ray screening of one of her bags allegedly revealed it had a false bottom made from a piece of plywood.
Inside the compartment were several packages that tested positive to cocaine.
The suitcase allegedly contained about five kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $1.1 million.
The exact weight and purity of the substance will be determined after further forensic testing, the Australia Federal Police said.
The woman was charged with importing and possessing a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug and was due to face Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.