Australian Migration Visa Lawyers - About Australia

About Australia Relocation

Most migrants to Australia will have personal possessions that they will want to take with them. You may be considering bringing only a few boxes of personal items, or all of your household possessions.

There are two ways these items can be brought into Australia:

The first and most common method is to use a removalist or mover that specialises in packing and transporting goods internationally. These companies, with worldwide affiliations, are a dedicated and professional group that can assist with the import of both sea and air freight. They generally charge a total door-to-door fee that may include the costs associated with clearing your goods through Quarantine (but not charges for treatments directed by AQIS).
Alternatively, you may choose to use a freight forwarding company to move your goods; once they arrive in Australia you can employ a customs broker who will facilitate the clearance of your goods through Quarantine on your behalf, or you can clear your goods yourself.

By approaching an International Removalist, you can take a lot of the stress out of the move. This should take place at least 3 – 6 months prior to departure.

Tips on selecting an Overseas Removalist:

Decide beforehand what you would like to take and what can be left behind. It is a good idea to check Australian Customs, as they have strict guidelines which must be met.
Get at least 3 quotes. The overseas removalist should be able to send someone to your home to see what possessions you are shipping and to give you a FREE quote.
Insurance can be a significant part of the removal costs (around 3% of the value of items being shipped). Discuss this with the removal companies, and check the fine print.
Check what is and is not included in the quote - e.g. packing, transportation, clearance through customs, delivery to your home in Australia, unpacking and disposal of materials.

Duty and Taxes payable on your imported goods

Duty Payable

Duty rates payable are determined by the tariff classification for your goods. The Customs Tariff Act 1995 (known as The Tariff) provides the Tariff classifications, duty rates, interpretive rules and information on preference schemes, other concessions and exemptions that may apply to your goods. The Tariff is available at Customs Counters or at www.customs.gov.au.

GST Payable

GST applies to most imported goods. There are few exemptions from the GST; the main exemptions are for certain foodstuffs, some medical aids and imports that qualify for certain duty concessions. GST is applied at 10% of the value of the taxable importation (VoTI).

Wine Equalisation Tax (WET)

Importation of an extensive wine cellar is allowable, however import duty/tax is payable. WET for imported wine is calculated as: 29% of the purchase price at inwards duty free; OR for other importations 29% of VoTI (Customs value + Duty + International Transport and Insurance)

Useful Links:
Compare Companies
Australian Customs
Australian Quarantine
Moving Advice