How long does it take you to get through Sydney international airport?

Form a Canberra perspective, the time taken to get through SYD is quite variable - as others have noted - but for transit passengers Sydney is a genuine nightmare of stress as well as time. From Canberra, I look to depart from Melbourne if possible (and I must investigate Brisbane in future) but have flown a couple of times by Qatar from Canberra which is heaven by comparison to Sydney; literally 30 seconds getting through immig/customs both ways, and max 10 mins for bags inbound. (That’s four J fares that Qantas has missed out on.)

For departure, it can be within 15 minutes from check-in to duty free stores. Taking CX138 flights which is nearly the last flights leaving Sydney.

Like most here I am a high level frequent flyer, usually I get through the airport quicker during a peak time then a mildly busy time.

This is due to when Outbound - Syd express pass is either closed or just points you into the general line with only a few smart gates open and screening lines open (the smart gates aren't run by a human, why can't they just leave all of them open?).

My best time from arriving, through immigration and customs, collecting bags, was about 12 mins. Worst about 30mins. For taking off through the e lane, normally 4 mins max.