I'm guessing the reasons Oz is sticking to the arrival card (for customs at least) include:
* Its filled out immediately before entering the immigration area, not some days or more beforehand, so should be more accurate, if people are honest. I think for Chile I could fill it out a week or more ahead!
* Its easy for the officials to look at and immediately quiz you about something on the form, person on person, no doubt looking at what you have with you as well . We don't do scanning barcodes.
* Our customs areas are 'serious' - not the walk-through like many places
* Pax convenience is not part of their mandate
