Answer by Michelle Whitehead, Camden 2570 NSW

• In most cases importing vehicles to Australia is prohibited. However there are some specific circumstances where this is allowed.
• If you are thinking of importing a vehicle to Australia you will need to follow these steps:

1. Do your research.
   • Is the vehicle eligible to enter Australia?
     •  In this case you should check the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Register: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/motor/sevs/index.aspx. This register lists vehicle makes and models that meet the criteria for classification as specialist and enthusiast vehicles.
   • Decide what import option applies to you.
     • There are a number of import options to suit various situations: http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/import_options/index.aspx. In this case you would use the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle option.
   • Calculate the costs involved. This will include:
     • transport;
     • storage at the point of origin and when it arrives in Australia while undergoing inspections;
     • delivery to your address;
     • preparing and submitting your application for a permit;
     • taxes;
     • Customs duties;
     • having the vehicle thoroughly cleaned so it does not breach quarantine regulations;
     • the cost of the quarantine inspection;
     • the costs of making any necessary modifications such as converting the steering to right-hand drive;
     • the costs of registration in your state or territory including any extra inspections that are required; and
     • the costs of compulsory and voluntary insurance.
2. Apply for a Vehicle Import Approval.
   • The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development (the department) will provide you with a vehicle import approval form or you can complete the form online: http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/application_forms.aspx#anc_io1
   • You will also need to complete at least one addendum (extra form) appropriate to the import option you have chosen.
   • Confirm you have all the required information and attachments before submitting your application to the department.
   • If the department needs further information from you they will generally request it by email.
3. Receive the Vehicle Import Approval.
   • If your application is approved you will receive a hardcopy of the approval through the post. There may be conditions imposed on the use of the vehicle in the approval so read it carefully.
4. Arrange for shipping of the vehicle.
   • Before it is shipped you will need to arrange for the vehicle to be thoroughly steam-cleaned inside and outside so it is not carrying any foreign material which could breach quarantine regulations. Also make sure any air-conditioning gas is removed for safety during shipping.
   • Confirm that you have complied with all the export requirements of the country of origin.
5. Get Customs clearance.
   • An import declaration must be lodged and you will also need to pay the customs duty and GST.
   • You may also need to pay luxury car tax if the value of the car is over the ATO’s threshold: https://www.ato.gov.au/rates/luxury-car-tax-rate-and-thresholds/.
6. Meet Australian quarantine requirements.
   • This requires you to lodge a Quarantine Entry form with the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service: http://www.daff.gov.au/biosecurity/import/vehicles-machinery/motor-vehicles.
   • Arrange an appointment for inspection. You or your customs broker may need to be present.
7. Meet Import Approval Conditions.
   • It may be necessary for you to arrange to have modifications made to your vehicle. (In NSW for example left hand drive cars are only legal if they are more than 30 years old so you will need a steering conversion.)
   • Have your vehicle tested and gather evidence of its compliance with any conditions imposed on the Import Approval or which are required for registration such as roadworthiness.
   • You may need to apply for identification plate approvals (a plate that is fitted to the vehicle and confirms that the vehicle complies with Australian safety and environmental standards) or supply to the market approvals (if you intend to sell the vehicle).
8. Register the vehicle in your state or territory.