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In order to import a vehicle into Australia you must have the following: Vehicle Import Approval

To download the Application form to import a vehicle, go to the following link:

http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/vehicle_regulation/bulletin/importing_vehicles/general/EligibilityCriteria_2.aspx

You should allow approximately 20 days for processing of applications.

Please note, you must have the approval in your possession before your imported vehicle/trailer arrives in Australia.

Please  note, before you proceed with enquiries regarding the private import of a vehicle, READ THESE RULES!

If the vehicle is manufactured after the 1st of January 1989, you cannot import the vehicle as an individual, unless you have owned the vehicle for twelve months in the country from where you are importing. For a full explanation of these rules please visit: http://raws.infrastructure.gov.au/

This manufacturing date does not apply to Fifth Wheel Trailers, Boat Trailers or caravans.

If the vehicle is thirty years or older, you do not have to have it modified to Right-hand Drive to register the vehicle in Australia.

Air Conditioning Import Regulations

The Department of the Environment and Heritage regulates the importation of air conditioning units in the vehicles into Australia.

There are two types of gas for air conditioning in vehicles:

R12:
This is the old style gas, also know as HCFC or HFC gas, which is banned from importation into Australia.  If the vehicle's air conditioning system runs on this gas they system must be retro-fitted ie. The filter value, receiver drier and gas must be removed and be replaced with R134a components (components only, not gas) or not be replaced at all.  A declaration from the technician removing the old system must be completed.

R134a:
This is the correct gas, also known as CFC gas.  However it is still not allowed into Australia without a permit to import pre-charged air con equipment.  This process costs approx. $3500.00 to complete.  To import a vehicle with R134a gas, without a permit must have the gas removed prior to importation (cannot be done on arrival).  A declaration from the shipper is required stating the gas has been removed is required.

All vehicles imported into Australia must have the air-conditioning degassed. For details please visit

http://www.environment.gov.au/

* Australian Customs requires a US Origin declaration be completed by the supplier. This form must be on the supplier’s letterhead.

Import Duty

• Duty is payable to the Australian Customs Service
• 5% duty is payable on imported vehicles ex USA (Figures are current Oct 09)
• Exemptions: Vehicles 30 years or older are duty free
• Vehicles classified as commercial (utilities and pick ups) and of US origin* are duty free
• Duty is calculated on the Customs Value of the vehicle.  The Customs Value of the vehicle is the purchase price converted into Australian Dollars using the official rate of exchange on the date of export of the vehicle from the place of export.
• The Customs Value should also include any modification or improvement work done to the vehicle after purchase but prior to arrival into Australia.
• Documentary evidence is required of the purchase price and any additional works done on the vehicle.

GST

10% GST is payable on the Value of Taxable Importation (VOTI).
The VOTI is the sum of:
 
Customs Value of the imported vehicle 

• any duty payable
• freight amount
• insurance (if applicable)

Luxury Car Tax
"For further information on taxes payable to Customs, go to the following link:
www.customs.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/importguidePrivOwnMV.pdf

Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS)

Whether importing new or used vehicles into Australia, AQIS will do a mandatory inspection on arrival to check the vehicle is clean and free of all quarantine risk material.
We advise all our importers to advise their suppliers to “clean as new”.

To check the AQIS regulations / instructions for import, go to: www.daff.gov.au/ (Select: Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service)