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Two New Zealanders have been accused of importing 36kg of methamphetamine into Australia.

Police estimate the value is more than A$33 million ($37.7m) and could have been distributed in 360,000 street deals.

The women, both 22, had their baggage searched after arriving at Melbourne Airport from Malaysia on Monday.

Australian Border Force (ABF) officers allegedly found a white crystalline substance in each of the women’s suitcases, totalling about 36kg, which later tested positive for methamphetamine.

The Australian Border Force allegedly found a white crystal substance in the women's suitcases, which later tested positive for methamphetamine. Photo / Australian Federal Police

The case was referred to the Australian Federal Police (AFP), who arrested the women at the airport.

Both have been charged with the importation and possession of a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Jarrod Ragg said federal police are committed to “defending Australia from drug imports and trafficking”.

“We remain focused on disrupting criminals who seek to wreak harm and havoc in our communities through illicit substances.

“Methamphetamine is linked to domestic violence, assaults on medical professionals and violence on our streets. The AFP stands ready and able to respond to those who are willing to risk this social harm for a personal profit and greed,” said Ragg.

Police say the amount of methamphetamine seized could have been sold in 360,000 street deals. Photo / Australian Federal Police

Acting Superintendent Ian Beasant said “accumulating profit” is the one motivating factor that links organised crime.

“The ABF will continue working closely with our partners using intelligence-led targeting to ensure our border is secure.”

He said officers were alert to criminal activity and would use “any available means to prevent the movement of illicit substances across the border”.

The two women appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

Both were remanded into custody to appear before the court on March 13 next year.