Japanese woman held for smuggling 19 lizards in Australia

A Japanese woman has been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle 19 native lizards out of Australia in a suitcase.

The Australian Border Force (AFB) nabbed the 27-year-old following a tip-off from their international networks. 

She appeared in court on Wednesday, with officials adding that they've been on high alert following two other similar cases involving Japanese nationals.

Authorities said this "will act as a deterrent to those thinking of exploiting Australia's native wildlife".

The reptiles - 17 Shingleback lizards and two Blue Tongues - have handed over to the Victorian State Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP).