Importing Vehicles Into Australia:

Importing vehicles into Australia represents one of the largest markets available to any potential business venture. As a country that has limited mass production potential, Australians usually have to look abroad for the majority of their automotive requirements.

The importation of overseas vehicles is controlled by the 1901 Customs Act. The act itself provides legislation on the importation of cars, motorcycles, trailers and any other form of vehicle. Businesses that are importing vehicles into Australia must have prior permission to do so. A Vehicle Import Approval document (VIA) must be applied for and the supporting documentation must be issued by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government under the 1989 Motor Vehicle Standards Act.

Importing businesses without a Vehicle Import Approval document (VIA) may be able to bring consignments into the country using an Australian or international carnet. An international carnet allows the holder to import private touring vehicles into Australia if duties and taxes are being guaranteed by a foreign party or organization. Australian carnets can be used for vehicles that were previously exported from Australia.

The Four Steps of Importing Vehicles into Australia

1. Apply for a Vehicle Import Approval document (VIA) from the Vehicle Standards Branch of Infrastructure. Remember that a fee will be applied on all approved applications.

2. Once a Vehicle Import Approval document (VIA) has been approved, remember to lodge an Import Declaration Form (B650) with the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. If you don't plan to import vehicles into Australia on a regular basis, it can be cheaper to use the services of a registered broker who can carry out the B650 declaration on your behalf. Alternatively, you can submit the declaration yourself by registering to the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) or submitting the declaration by hand at any Customs and Border Protection counter.

3. Pay your customs duties, Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) to the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service.

4. Arrange for a vehicle inspection with the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service. A date and location will be offered and the inspection will take place once the vehicle has arrived.

Individual imports with a value of $1,000 or less can be imported using a self-assessed clearance declaration but a Vehicle Import Approval document (VIA) is still required. Vehicle valuations are determined by the price paid for the vehicle in most instances but alternative valuation methods can be used if the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service deem it necessary to do so.

Need help with importing your vehicle from Australia: Import Australian cars