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Eligibility Criteria

1. Vehicles manufactured before January 1989
2. Trailers
3. Trucks and Buses
4. Letter of Compliance
5. Personal Imports
   1. Personal Import Plates
6. Vehicles with Australian Id Plates
7. Overseas Visitors to Australia
8. Racing Vehicles
9. Off Road Vehicles
   1. Cranes
   2. Pocket Bikes
   3. Motorised Scooters and Pedal Cycles
   4. Mobility Wheelchairs
   5. Motor Bikes
10. Importing through a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW)

1. Vehicles manufactured before 1 January 1989 - Part 4 on Application Form

You can import any vehicle manufactured before 1 January 1989 without restriction, but you still need a Vehicle Import Approval for it to enter Australia and the Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle Form must be used.

You might have to modify the vehicle to meet registration requirements. You should contact the Motor Vehicle Registration Authority in the State or Territory where you intend to register the vehicle for information on their requirements.

To apply for an import approval under the arrangements for older vehicles, you must provide:

• a completed Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle;
• the application fee, $50.00 Australian Dollars, by cheque, Money Order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only), if paying by cheque from overseas, seek advice from your bank on the correct process;
• copy of the vehicle purchase document(s);
• photographic identification of the person making the application or, for a company, the responsible officer, the photograph must be certified by an appropriate person (see the section later in this brochure) as being that of the applicant, if you have not submitted an application to import a vehicle within the last 12 months you will need to provide the photographic identification;

If you have owned and used the vehicle for some time, you might be able to apply to import your vehicle under the Personal Import arrangements.  Read on further to see if this applies to you and your vehicle.

What if the vehicle was manufactured before 1 January 1989 and you have owned and used it for at least one Year?

If the vehicle was manufactured before 1 January 1989 and you have owned and used it for at least one year, you may be able to apply for approval to import the vehicle under the arrangements for older vehicles (read the previous section) and the Personal Import arrangements (read the next section).

In some cases, the registration requirements for Personal Import vehicles can be less complex than for the older vehicles. These requirements are determined by the individual vehicle registration authority.

Before you make your import application, you should contact the registering authority in the state or territory in Australia where you will be registering the vehicle for the first time for advice on the different requirements for older vehicles and personal import vehicles, contact details for the registering authorities are at the end of this brochure.

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2. Trailers - Part 5, 6 and 7 on Application Form

Do you wish to import a Trailer?

Note: The word trailer' in this section also includes caravans and 5th wheelers.

Any trailer designed for towing behind a road motor vehicle must have a Vehicle Import Approval granted so that it can enter Australia.  The trailer may be as small as a motorcycle trailer, a caravan or as large as an oversized trailer used for moving heavy machinery or loads.

Importers should be aware that trailers manufactured for other markets may need significant modifications to comply with the applicable ADRs.  This may include, but not limited to:

• replacing or testing of braking systems;
• replacing the trailer couplings such as ball couplings or fifth wheels;
• strengthening the trailer's structure in particular, where the coupling is mounted;
• replacing the electrical wiring or connectors;
• replacing the LPG installations;
• replacing the trailer lights;
• adjusting the axle group positions to reduce rear overhang;
• removing the awnings and other protruding components to reduce the overall width of the trailer to within 2.5 metres;
• re-locating the caravan/5th wheeler's door to the left hand side or to the rear of the vehicle.

Please note that the above are major modifications to the trailer and therefore can be costly.  Importers are advised to check if the modifications are possible (for example, re-locating the door) and the costs involved before applying to import the trailer.

Note: In the Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle form, you must tick the yes' box next to the declaration"I declare that I have read section 2 of the information brochure (VSB10) and will modify the trailer(s) to comply with the ADRs that apply at the date the trailer(s) is/are first supplied to the market or first used in transport in Australia".

An import approval will not be granted to the trailer if the required modifications cannot be made to the trailer.

2.1 New and used trailers that are up to 4.5 tonnes (4,500 kilograms) Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM)

These trailers may be approved for importation to Australia subject to the trailers being modified to comply with the design and construction standards for road trailers, published in Vehicle Standards Bulletin 1 (VSB1) Building Small Trailers, before being sold or registered for use on public roads for the first time in Australia.

Copies of VSB1 are available from the Department's website at: http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/roads/vehicle_regulation/bulletin/vsb1/index.aspx

The trailer must be exported or destroyed if it cannot be made to comply with VSB1 or the ADRs.

As part of the import application, the importer must provide:

• a completed Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle;
• the application fee - $50.00 Australian Dollars - by cheque, Money Order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only) - if paying by cheque from overseas, seek advice from your bank on the correct process, cheques should be made payable to the "Receiver of Public Monies";
• Purchase Document, which could be you invoice, receipt etc
• If the ATM is greater than 3000kg - please provide a copy of the original manufacturers' specifications.  Note* if the trailer is originally manufactured in the United States of America - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is equivalent to ATM;
• Photographic identification by way of an Australian drivers licence or picture page of a passport of the person making the application or, for a company, the responsible officer - if you have not submitted an application to import a vehicle within the last 12 months you will need to provide photographic identification again;

Some further information that may be required after assessment of the application:

• Brochures showing the original manufacturers specifications for the trailer;
• If the proposed ATM is different to the original manufacturer's ATM (or GVWR), you will need to complete the justification for de-rating.  If possible include engineering justification such as test results on the capacity of the tow coupling or suspension components that show that they are not capable of meeting ADR requirements or Australian conditions;
• In the case of caravans (including 5th wheelers), the justification must include the number of berths in the trailer and the mass of grey and black water that may be carried in the caravan.

Note: If the ATM is less than or close to the tare mass an import approval will not be granted.

Application to Import a Small Road Trailer [DOC: 188 KB] [PDF: 173 KB]

2.2 Trailers with an ATM Greater than 4.5 tonnes

These trailers may be approved for importation to Australia subject to the trailers complying with the ADRs applicable at the date they are first supplied to the market or first used in transport in Australia.

New trailers must also have an Identification Plate fitted in accordance with an approval issued by the Administrator of Vehicle Standards.

Used trailers must also have a section 16(2) approval issued by the Administrator of Vehicle Standards.

2.2.1 Trailer Approval Scheme (only applicable to new trailers)

If you have not already done so, you must first register the Licensee, the Production Facility and Design Facility in the Road Vehicle Certification System (RVCS) before making a vehicle import application.

The Registration form for a Licensee can be downloaded from the RVCS website accessible from www.infrastructure.gov.au.  Select Register here" from the menu and follow the instructions to download a copy of, and submit, the completed Registration form for a Licensee' form.

The Registration forms for a Production Facility and Design Facility can also be downloaded from the RVCS website accessible from www.infrastructure.gov.au.  Complete these forms and mail or fax them to this Office.

Once you are given your Licensee Identification (ID) number (five-digit number prefixed with the letter L') you must fill in the Licensee ID box on the vehicle import application form.

If you already have a Licensee ID you can use this ID on the vehicle import application form.

If you do not already have an Identification Plate Approval (IPA) under the Trailer Approval Scheme the trailer may be granted an import approval for a Test and Evaluation Vehicle.  This import approval is granted on the condition that the trailer will be modified and tested to demonstrate compliance with the applicable ADRs.  If for any reason the trailer is unable to meet the ADRs then it must be exported or destroyed.

For the purpose of the IPA, the importer is considered the manufacturer and must have a quality management system in place to ensure that each trailer fitted with an identification plate is of the same specification as that of the trailer approved in the IPA.  Once you have gained an IPA you can apply to import unlimited numbers of the trailers covered by the IPA.

Note: You cannot use this IPA to import a different make or model of trailer.  You will need to go through the same process of applying for importation of one Test and Evaluation vehicle for each of the different make or model of trailer.

Further information is available at: http:rvcs.infrastructure.gov.au/

As part of the import application, the importer must provide:

• a completed Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle;
• the application fee - $50.00 Australian Dollars - by cheque, Money Order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only) - if paying by cheque from overseas, seek advice from your bank on the correct process, cheques should be made payable to the"Receiver of Public Monies";
• Purchase Document, which could be you invoice, receipt etc
• If a test trailer, supply your Licensee ID, Production Facility ID, Design Facility ID.
• If you already hold Identification Plate Approval supply the IPA number
• Photographic identification by way of an Australian drivers licence or picture page of a passport of the person making the application or, for a company, the responsible officer - if you have not submitted an application to import a vehicle within the last 12 months you will need to provide photographic identification again;
• a signed declaration that the trailer will be modified to comply with the ADRs that apply at the date the trailer is first supplied to the market or first used in transport in Australia
• If the trailer is over dimensioned (e.g. more than 2500mm wide etc.,) a letter from an Australian State or Territory Registering Authority that they will allow the trailer to be used on public roads.

2.2.2 Used Trailer Approval Scheme

This scheme allows the supply to the market of used trailers.  Used trailers that are up to 4.5 tonnes ATM are not eligible.

An Import Approval may be granted on the condition that the trailer will not be used on public roads until it has been modified to comply with the applicable ADRs that apply at the date the trailer is first supplied to the market or first used in transport in Australia and you have obtained an approval under section 16(2) of the Act.

If for any reason the trailer is unable to meet the ADRs and/or obtained a section 16(2) approval then it must be exported for destroyed.

Information on obtaining a Section 16(2) approval is at:

• Mr Bob Seow on 02 6274 7504

As part of the import application, the importer must provide:

• a completed Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle;
• the application fee - $50.00 Australian Dollars - by cheque, Money Order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only) - if paying by cheque from overseas, seek advice from your bank on the correct process, cheques should be made payable to the"Receiver of Public Monies";
• Purchase Document, which could be you invoice, receipt etc
• Photographic identification by way of an Australian drivers licence or picture page of a passport of the person making the application or, for a company, the responsible officer - if you have not submitted an application to import a vehicle within the last 12 months you will need to provide photographic identification again;
• a signed declaration that the trailer will be modified to comply with the ADRs that apply at the date the trailer is first supplied to the market or first used in transport in Australia
• If the trailer is over dimensioned (e.g. more than 2500mm wide etc.,) a letter from an Australian State or Territory Registering Authority that they will allow the trailer to be used on public roads.

Abbreviations and Glossary

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3. Trucks and Buses

Trucks less than 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and buses with less than 12 seating positions

If the vehicle is built on a conventional truck chassis it will be classed as a truck. If the vehicle has more than 9 seating positions, including the driver's seat, it is classed as a bus.

Trucks having a GVM less than 12 tonnes and buses with fewer than 12 seating positions need to meet the ADRs applicable at the date of original manufacture.

These vehicles must have an identification plate fitted. Importers will need to obtain either:

1. A letter of compliance from the approved identification plate holder. A list of approval holders is available at: See also the section on Letter of Compliance for more information.

You need to perform a search for the Make and Model of vehicle you wish to import; OR

2. The vehicle will need to be modified by a Registered Automotive Workshop holding the appropriate approvals to meet the National Standards (Australian Design Rules). A full list of RAWs is available.

Note: If you are using a RAW then the RAW must make the application to import OR

3. A letter of agreement from an organisation who holds New Low Volume approval. To search to see if there is a Low Volume Approval Holder go to http://rvcs.infrastructure.gov.au/ Vehicle/RVD Search

Documents required to be submitted with the application form:

• $50.00 application fee
• purchase document
• letter of compliance (1 above)
• or Letter of Agreement (3 above) trucks Gross Vehicle Mass or number of seats for buses
• certified picture ID of the importer or responsible officer if a company
• if you have not imported in the last 12 months you will need to provide your ID again

Trucks over 12 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and buses with more than 12 seating positions

These vehicles must have a plate fitted. Importers need to obtain either:

A letter of compliance from the approved identification plate holder. A list of approval holders is available at: (See the section on Letter of Compliance for more information).

You need to perform a search for the Make and Model of vehicle you wish to import; OR;

The vehicle will need to be modified by a Registered Automotive Workshop holding the appropriate approvals to meet the National Standards (Australian Design Rules). A full list of RAWs is available.

Trucks over 12 tonnes GVM to be imported and fitted with a Used Import Plate by a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) and buses with more than 12 seating positions need to meet the ADRs applicable when the plate is fitted.

Note: If you are using a RAW then the RAW must make the application to import OR a letter of agreement from an organisation who holds New Low Volume approval. You can search to see if there is a Low Volume Approval Holder Vehicle/RVD Search

Documents required to be submitted with the application form:

• $50.00 application fee
• purchase document
• an original letter of compliance (1 above) or
• letter of agreement (4 above)
• GVM for trucks or number of seats for buses
• certified picture ID of the importer or responsible officer if a company
• if you have not imported in the last 12 months you will need to provide your ID again

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4. Letter of Compliance - Part 9 on Application Form

Dealers and distributors do not have authority to sign a Letter of Compliance. A Letter will only be issued by the manufacturer where a vehicle was originally built to Australian specifications (ie to comply with the Australian Design Rules).

A Letter of Compliance states that a vehicle complies with the applicable ADRs at the time of the vehicle's original build date. Only the authorised Australian representative of the manufacturer, or the organisation holding the Plate Approval for the particular vehicle model, can issue a Letter of Compliance for the vehicle you intend to import. It is therefore only in exceptional circumstances that a Letter of Compliance can be obtained.

You are only permitted to import 1 vehicle in a 12 month period under these arrangements.

The plate is supplied by the Administrator for affixing to the vehicle before registration in your State or Territory. There is a charge for the supply of this plate by the authorised plate engraver.

Details of companies that have approval to place identification plates on new vehicle and therefore are permitted to issue a Letter of Compliance are available from the Road Vehicle Certification Scheme / Vehicle/RVD Search

Documents required to be submitted with the application form:

• $50.00 application fee
• purchase document
• original Letter of Compliance
• certified picture ID of the importer or responsible officer if a company
• if you have not imported in the last 12 months you will need to provide your ID again

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5. Personal Imports - Part 10 on Application Form

The Personal Imports Scheme allows migrants settling in Australia, and expatriate Australian citizens returning permanently to Australia after a long period overseas, to bring their personal vehicles with them.

The Personal Imports Scheme is outlined at regulation 13 of the Motor Vehicle Standards Regulations 1989. Mandatory criteria apply under the scheme. These criteria are outlined below. The criteria are strictly enforced. If you fail to meet the criteria, you will not be eligible to import a vehicle under the scheme.

Criteria, ownership of the vehicle

Applicants must satisfy each of the following ownership requirements. You must:

• own the vehicle when submitting the application; and
• have acquired ownership of the vehicle from overseas; and
• have owned the vehicle while overseas; and
• have owned the vehicle for a continuous period of at least 12 months. This is the qualifying period. The qualifying period must have occurred immediately before you (permanently) arrived in Australia.

Criteria, use of the vehicle

The vehicle must have been available to you for use in transport. This means that the vehicle must have been available to be driven by you, at all times during the 12 month qualifying period. The vehicle should be registered (in your name) and garaged (proximate to your residence) throughout the 12 month qualifying period, so that you could, if needed, drive the vehicle. In addition, you must have held an appropriate licence to drive the vehicle overseas.

Criteria, citizenship and visa requirements

Applicants must fall into one of the following categories. You must:

• be an Australian citizen; or
• have applied to become an Australian citizen; or
• be an Australian permanent resident (eg, hold a permanent visa); or
• have applied to become an Australian permanent resident (eg, applied for a permanent visa); or
• hold a visa that allows you to apply to become an Australian permanent resident (eg, hold a temporary visa that allows you to apply for a permanent visa); or otherwise
• be entitled to remain in Australia indefinitely (eg, be a New Zealand citizen).

In addition, applicants must intend to change their residence. Applicants must have been resident in a foreign country (throughout the qualifying period of 12 months ownership and use of the vehicle) but now intend to become Australian residents on a permanent basis and remain in Australia indefinitely.

Note. The Personal Imports Scheme only covers individuals. Companies or corporations are not eligible to import a vehicle under the scheme.

 

Note. The Personal Imports Scheme does not cover temporary Australian residents. Visitors such as tourists, posted diplomatic personnel and posted military personnel are not eligible to import a vehicle under the scheme.

Criteria, date of application

Applications may be made before you arrive in Australia. Alternatively, applications may be made up to 6 months after you arrive in Australia.

Criteria, age of applicants

Applicants must be of an age to hold an Australian licence to drive the vehicle.

Criteria, limit of 1 vehicle per year

Applicants may only import one vehicle (under the Personal Imports Scheme) every 12 months.

Note. After 18 November 2010, applicants may only import one vehicle (under the Personal Imports Scheme) every 5 years.

Documents to be provided by the applicant

To apply for a vehicle import approval under the Personal Imports Scheme, you should provide the following (to the Department) in the first instance:

• a completed Application for a Personally Imported Vehicle;
• the application fee - $50 Australian dollars, by cheque, money order or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only). If paying by cheque from overseas, please seek advice from your bank on the correct procedure;
• a copy of your drivers licence;
• a copy of the purchase documents for the vehicle, in your name;
• a copy of the registration documents for the vehicle (for the qualifying period), in your name;
• a statement of travel. The statement of travel is prepared by you, and itemises any international travel you undertook during the qualifying period. In particular, the statement sets out any absences from your country of residence. If travel was for business reasons, you should supply a letter to that effect from your employer; and
• a copy of your passport (this includes a copy of every page, including blank pages). If you hold dual passports, you should produce a copy of both passports.

Applicants importing a vehicle from Japan should also provide:

• a copy of the Japanese deregistration certificate, in your name;
• a copy of the Japanese parking approval, in your name; and
• a copy of the Japanese compulsory tax and insurance documents.

Applicants may substantiate an intention to remain in Australia indefinitely, by establishing:

• your employment details, such as a letter from your Australian employer;
• a rental agreement / purchase agreement for your residential property in Australia;
• the shipment of your household goods to Australia;
• the enrolment of your children in an Australian school;
• your Australian telephone / electricity accounts;the sale of your residential property in your former country of residence;
• the cancellation of your residential rental property in your former country of residence; and
• your resignation from employment in your former country of residence.

In addition, foreign citizens settling in Australia may substantiate an intention to remain in Australia indefinitely, by providing evidence that they have:

• applied for an Australian Tax File Number;
• registered with Medicare;
• applied for Australian medical insurance;
• applied to open an Australian bank account; and
• applied for an Australian drivers licence.

These lists are a guide. You may also be required to provide further evidence, including:

• a copy of the deregistration certificate, from the previous owner of the vehicle;
• a copy of insurance documents for the vehicle;
• copies of other documents that support your purchase of the vehicle (such as bank statements, receipts from vendors); and
• copies of other documents that show you used the vehicle (such as receipts for any maintenance or repairs made to the vehicle).

Documents not in the English language must be accompanied by a translation certified by a member of an accredited agency such as the National Accreditation Authority of Translators and Interpreters.

You may be required to submit original documentation (not photocopies) to confirm eligibility under the scheme.

Hypothetical examples, under the Personal Imports Scheme

The following hypothetical examples are provided to assist you to decide whether you qualify under the Personal Imports Scheme.

Example 1 The applicant is an expatriate Australian citizen, resident for 2 years in the U.S. and employed as an airline pilot. During this period, because of work commitments, the applicant spent some considerable time outside the U.S. Nevertheless, the applicant remained based in, and resident of, the U.S. The applicant purchased a car 18 months ago in the U.S.; the car was garaged at the applicants U.S. residence and was registered for use in the U.S. for the entire 18 months. The applicant used the car regularly but infrequently. The applicant now intends to return permanently to Australia (and intends to take up employment as an airline pilot based in Australia). The applicant has not imported a car previously. The applicant qualifies under the Personal Imports Scheme to import the car into Australia, despite the infrequent use of the vehicle in the U.S.

 

Example 2 The applicant is a retired Australian citizen who 18 months ago moved to the U.K. The applicant was not employed but nevertheless remained based in, and resident of, the U.K. During this period, the applicant undertook a number of tours to neighbouring countries. The applicant purchased a car 18 months ago in the U.K.; the car was garaged at the applicants U.K. residence and was registered for use in the U.K. for the entire 18 months. Because of the applicants tours, the applicant used the car regularly but infrequently. The applicant now intends to return permanently to Australia. The applicant has not imported a car previously. The applicant qualifies under the Personal Imports Scheme to import the car into Australia, despite the infrequent use of the vehicle in the U.K.

 

Example 3 The applicant is an Australian citizen who has travelled to a Mediterranean country for 9 months, on an extended holiday and honeymoon. While overseas, the applicant purchased a scooter for personal transportation purposes and has used the scooter regularly and frequently for the entire 9 month period. The applicant is now returning to Australia. The applicant fails to qualify under the Personal Imports Scheme. This is because (1) the period of use of the scooter was less than 12 months; and (2) during this period, the applicant remained an Australian resident.

 

Example 4 The applicant is a New Zealand citizen who intends to settle permanently in Australia. The applicant is not travelling to Australia for holiday or tourist purposes. Rather, the applicant has arranged employment within Australia (and amongst other matters has obtained an Australian Tax File Number, has established an Australian bank account, has registered with Medicare and has applied for an Australian drivers licence). The applicant has also arranged residential property in Australia and is shipping his household goods to Australia. Under the TransTasman Travel Arrangement, there is a free flow of people between Australia and New Zealand. Upon arrival in Australia, New Zealand citizens are considered to have applied for a visa and, subject to health and character considerations, automatically receive a Special Category Visa. The applicant purchased a car 18 months ago in New Zealand; the car was garaged at the applicants New Zealand residence and was registered for use in New Zealand for the entire 18 months. The applicant has not imported a car previously. The applicant qualifies under the Personal Imports Scheme to import the car into Australia.

The personal import plate and vehicle registration

If you are eligible under the Personal Imports Scheme (and a vehicle import approval has been granted), you may apply for the issue of a personal import plate. There is an additional charge for the supply of the plate (payable to the plate contractor).

Vehicle registration is administered by the registering authority in your state or territory. Contact details for state or territory registering authorities are provided at the end of this bulletin.

The approval papers forwarded to you will contain four parts:

• one copy allows the vehicle to be cleared from its point of entry into Australia (by the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service);
• one copy allows you to obtain a personal import plate from the plate contractor;
• one copy is for the state or territory registering authority, and is for the purpose of vehicle registration; and
• one copy is for your own records, and should be kept with the vehicle.

A personal import plate is evidence that the vehicle is an approved vehicle import and allows the vehicle to be registered. Before you may apply for a personal import plate, the vehicle must be brought up to acceptable ADR standards and the original approval documents must be completed. For Australian registration purposes, a vehicle imported under the Personal Imports Scheme must:

• be roadworthy; and
• meet minimum safety standards.

Modifications to bring the vehicle up to minimum safety standards can be deferred until you wish to register the vehicle.

Some state or territory registering authorities will inspect your vehicle and sign a statement of compliance. Others will refer you to an authorised signatory for inspection. The statement of compliance on the approval documents must be signed by an authorised person. The original signed statement of compliance must then be sent to the plate contractor (whose address is set out in the approval documents).

You should contact your state or territory registering authority for further details on how to have your vehicle inspected and registered.

Go to the Personal Import Application form

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6. Is an Australian Identification Plate already fitted to the vehicle or are you returning a vehicle that was originally exported from Australia?

Part 8 on Application form

Any road vehicle, that is being imported into Australia must be covered by a valid import approval, a valid carnet or be subject to an intergovernmental agreement such as a Status of Forces Agreement before it may be cleared for entry into Australia by the Australian Customs Service.

There are many reasons that people take their Australian vehicle overseas, perhaps for a vacation, a particular event, to live overseas for a while or even to have work done on the vehicle.  This section explains the different processes that may be followed to allow vehicles back in to Australia.

Vehicles fitted with an Australian Identification Plate that have not been modified before being re-imported to Australia

An Identification Plate (also known as a Compliance Plate) is fitted to a vehicle by the manufacturer to confirm that the vehicle complied with the applicable Australian Design Rules when it was first supplied to the market in Australia.  Figure A shows what an identification plate looks like.  Identification plates are normally fitted on the firewall on passenger cars and on the frame head on motorcycles however, some vehicles may have identification plates fitted in the door frame or in the luggage compartment.  Older identification plates were made from stamped aluminium, modern plates are adhesive labels.

Typical Motor Car and Truck Identification Plate

Typical Motorcylce Identification Plate
Figure A

If your vehicle is fitted with an identification plate, an import approval may be able to be issued to allow you to import your vehicle.  You must complete and submit the application at the end of this guide and provide the following information:

• a completed Application for Approval to Import a Vehicle;
• the application fee $50.00 Australian Dollars by cheque, Money Order, or credit card (MasterCard or Visa only) if paying by cheque from overseas, seek advice from your bank on the correct process;
• Details of the plate, including a photograph showing:
  • Vehicle Make
  • Vehicle Model
  • Date of Manufacture
  • Vehicle Category
  • Number of seats
  • Identification Plate Approval Number
• Photographic identification by way of an Australian drivers licence or picture page of a passport of the person making the application or, for a company, the responsible officer if you have not submitted an application to import a vehicle within the last 12 months you will need to provide photographic identification again;

Vehicles fitted with an Australian Identification Plate that have been extensively modified while overseas

Vehicles that have been extensively modified while overseas may not be eligible to be imported under this provision.  Extensively modified vehicles may be considered new vehicles for the purpose of the Act because the original identification plate no longer describes the vehicle, for example in the case of a passenger car that has been stretched into a limousine with additional seats, the vehicle category may have changed and the number of seats listed on the plate may be incorrect.  If your vehicle has been modified at all while overseas you must provide details of the modifications.

Where the modifications do mean that the identification plate is not valid, there are several alternatives under which an import approval may be granted:

• For vehicles that were not used in transport in Australia (not registered), and not used overseas, the modified vehicle must be demonstrated to comply with the Australian Design Rules and approval must be issued under the Act to allow a new identification plate to be fitted.  An application may be made to import the vehicle as a test vehicle . 
• For vehicles not used in Australia, modified and then used overseas, importation may only be granted under the Personal Imports Scheme (Section 5.5) or the Registered Automotive Workshops scheme (Section 4.3)
• For vehicles that have been used in Australia and then exported and modified, an import approval may be granted if advice can be provided from the state or territory registration authority where the vehicle is to be registered that they will consider the vehicle for registration under their modified vehicle scheme.  Import approvals issued under this arrangement will prohibit use in transport until a state or territory has registered the vehicle as a modified vehicle.  People considering modifying their vehicle overseas should discuss registration requirements before exporting their vehicle.

Non Standard Vehicles not fitted with an identification plate.

If an import approval had been issued in the past to allow a vehicle not fitted with an identification plate to be imported into Australia, you cannot assume that it will be allowed back into Australia.  A vehicle that was imported into Australia and then re-exported will need a new vehicle import approval before the vehicle can be imported back to Australia.

Please be aware, before you export the vehicle overseas you will only be issued with a new vehicle import approval if you satisfy one of the criteria contained in this document.

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7. Overseas visitors to Australia

The Carnet

If you are visiting Australia on a vacation, you may temporarily import your vehicle to Australia by presenting a valid Carnet de Passage en Duane to the Australian Customs Service at the port where the vehicle arrives in Australia.

A carnet is similar to a personal passport and contains all the relevant information about the vehicle - make, model, colour, engine capacity, seating capacity, registration number, owner and value. Carnets can be obtained for motor vehicles, motorcycles, campervans, four wheel drive vehicles, caravans and trailers.

Your Vehicles' Carnet must be obtained from the motoring organisation in your country of residence before you leave home. (For USA residents, carnets are available from the Canadian Automobile Association in Ottawa.)

Conditions of Use

• A carnet is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
• Vehicles imported under a carnet may not be lent, sold, mortgaged, hired, exchanged, given away or otherwise disposed of while in Australia;
• The vehicle must be exported from Australia prior to or on the expiry date of the carnet; and
• The vehicle that is covered by a carnet must not remain in Australia when the owner is not in Australia.

Vehicles imported without a Carnet will not be permitted to clear customs until an import approval is issued. Import approvals can only be issued in accordance with the circumstances set out in the Regulations as documented in this bulletin.

If you do not meet any of the circumstances, an import approval will not be issued and you will be required to have your vehicle exported or destroyed at your own expense.

Note: this Office does not issue Carnets and is unable to assist with any questions on Carnets, please contact your motoring organisation in your country for the issuing of a Carnet and information on a Carnet.

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8. Racing Vehicles - Part 11 of the Application Form

Rally Use/ Closed Circuit Racing

Before approving a Vehicle Import Application, the Administrator needs to be satisfied that the vehicle will be only used for rally/race purposes

Vehicle Import Applications for rally/race use will only be considered where the vehicle will be used in serious competition, generally at professional level. Where a particular vehicle model is readily available in the Australian market, a Vehicle Import Approval will not be granted unless there are compelling reasons to justify why it is necessary to import a vehicle to compete in events in Australia. The fact that a vehicle may be on an eligibility list for an event is not, of itself, a reason to justify the granting of a Vehicle Import Approval.

At a minimum, the following criteria must be met:

• eligible vehicles for rally/race use are those homologated by the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). A list of homologated vehicle models is available.
• under normal circumstances applicants will be restricted to importing a single vehicle and acceptable reasons will need to be provided to import another vehicle for rally/race use.
• road vehicles for rally use are imported on the condition that they will only be used in the course of competition, practice associated with competition and transport to and from a rally location.
• the applicant must include a statement with their application that the vehicle will only be used for rally purposes together with a copy of a current CAMS R3 or higher grade licence.
• For closed circuit racing the applicant must include a statement with their application that the vehicle will only be used for closed circuit racing purposes together with a copy of a current CAMS C3 or higher grade licence.

In addition, the applicant will need to provide evidence of a professional or high level involvement in rally/race sport, including:

• details of events in which the applicant has driven a rally/race car;
• details of specific events in which the applicant proposes to compete in the car for which the Vehicle Import Application is submitted;
• details of the rally/race club or organisation of which the applicant is a member and the length of membership; and
• if the vehicle is a model available in the Australian vehicle market, justification for the need to import the vehicle (cost of the vehicle in the domestic market will not generally be considered an acceptable justification).

Documents required to be submitted with the application form:

• $50.00 application fee
• purchase documents
• copy of CAMS R3 or higher licence or CAMS C3 or higher
• evidence of participation in rallying or closed circuit racing and
• evidence of vehicles homologation,
• certified picture ID of the importer or responsible officer if a company
• if you have not imported in the last 12 months you will need to provide your ID again

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9. Off Road Vehicles - Non Transport Equipment - Part 12 on Application Form

Note: Before a Vehicle Import Approval may be issued for a vehicle, it is first necessary to determine whether the vehicle is a 'road vehicle' for the purposes of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 (the Act). For the purposes of the Act, 'road vehicle' means:

1. a motor vehicle designed solely or principally for the transport on public roads of people, animals or goods; or
2. a motor vehicle that is permitted to be used on public roads

It is important to note that the Act does not take into account the intended use of the vehicle. If the vehicle is a 'Road Vehicle' it will require a Vehicle Import Approval regardless of whether it is to be used on or off road.

Vehicles imported for off road use must have been originally manufactured as off road vehicles, eg four wheel agricultural bikes.

Vehicles that are based on a conventional truck chassis are subject to normal compliancing requirements. You will need to meet one of the Eligibility Criteria outlined.

Vehicles which are built from the "the ground up" as special vehicles, eg rough terrain cranes, will continue to be treated as special purpose vehicles and may be granted exemption from the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989.

Cranes

All special purposes-built cranes are required to gain Vehicle Import Approval.

If your crane is mounted on a conventional truck chassis it is not classed as a special purpose-built crane.

If the crane is permitted to be used on public roads you are required to submit with the Vehicle Import Application a letter from an Australian State or Territory Motor Vehicle Registration Authority stating that they will allow the vehicle to be used on public roads.

Pocket Bikes

All pocket bikes require a Vehicle Import Approval to enable clearance by the Australian Customs Service.

To gain Import Approval generally the seat height must be not more than 600mm from the ground to the saddle (where you actually sit) for classification as a Pocket Bike. A manufacturers brochure including design features must be attached to the Vehicle Import Application Form. Vehicle Import Approval does not indicate compliance with Australian Standards.

Motorised Scooters and Pedal Cycles

All motorised scooters and motorised pedal cycles require an Import Approval.

Motorised scooters or pedal cycles with a maximum power output not greater than 200 watts fall into the AB vehicle category (Pedal assisted cycles) in the National Standards (ADRs) and are not subject to the Australian Design Rules. However, they must still have an Import Approval, before they can be imported into Australia.

If your motorised scooter or pedal cycle exceeds 200 watts it falls into one of the following vehicle categories (as determined in the National Standards (ADRs):

LA (Moped)

• power output exceeding 200watts
• not exceeding 50ml capacity
• not capable of exceeding 50km/h

OR

LC (Motorcycle)

• exceeds 50ml Capacity and/or
• capable of exceeding 50km/h

The Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 applies to both LA and LC category vehicles and unless you meet one of the Eligibility Criteria outlined earlier you will be unable to import such a vehicle.

Mobility Wheelchairs

The requirements to import a mobility scooter are:

• must be self propelled (ie propelled by a mechanism other than by human power);
• can only accommodate a single person;
• are designed so as to be not capable of a speed exceeding 10km/h on level ground;
• have more than 2 wheels; and
• have an unladen mass not less than 40kg

Motor Bikes

Other countries may classify off road bikes differently to Australia.

Generally if a bike was designed principally for 'on road use' and has lights, blinkers, side mirrors and provision for a number plate, it is regarded as a ON ROAD bike. However there are cases where some bikes are manufactured with the above features but are still regarded as an off road design. Below are examples of off/on road bikes:

	Example of an off road bike
	Example of a bike with on road features but could be also classed as off road bike
	Example of a pure on road design bike

If your bike falls into the category where it has some on road features but is predominately an off-road bike, the Administrator may grant Vehicle Import Approval if you agree to the following:

1. Direction indicator lamps are not fitted at time of importation nor at any time later;
2. Registration plate holder is not fitted at time of importation nor at any time later;
3. Tyres suitable for off-road use only are fitted at time of import and at all times later; and
4. A durable self adhesive label is affixed in a conspicuous position immediately after taking delivery of the vehicle in Australia. The label must include the words "this motorcycle is not certified to comply with the Australian Design Rules and may not be registered for normal on road use".
   
   Documents required to be submitted with the application form:

• $50.00 application fee
• purchase document
• a brochure showing manufactures specifications of the vehicle and picture
• certified picture ID of the importer or responsible officer if a company
• if you have not imported in the last 12 months you will need to provide your ID again

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10. Importing, Modifying and having an Australian Identification Plate Fitted by a (RAWS)

An important warning: Beware of any used vehicle that is, or could have been, damaged. Under the law, a Used Import Plate cannot be fitted to a vehicle that has been damaged beyond specified limits, even if it has been repaired. This is because the damage may affect the structural safety of the vehicle. A damaged used imported vehicle which enters Australia must be exported or destroyed - it cannot be dismantled for parts.

If the vehicle is used, you may be able to have it imported under the Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme (RAWS). RAWS caters for specialist and enthusiast used imported vehicles not available in Australia in full volumes by mainstream manufacturers. Under RAWS, eligible vehicles can be imported and modified to meet the Australian vehicle safety standards - the Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Only approved workshops can apply to import RAWS vehicles and only approved workshops can carry out the work to make the vehicles comply with the ADRs.

A vehicle is eligible for import if it meets the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS) criteria and it matches the eligibility entry in the Register of Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles (the Register). An import approval will not be issued if the vehicle details do not match the Register entry.

You can check the Register details yourself and then contact an approved workshop, or you can simply contact a workshop to advise and assist you from the start. If your vehicle is not on the Register, or if the details do not match, you will have to make an Application for Entry on the Register, or a workshop can make an application. Do not take for granted that a particular vehicle is, or will be, eligible.

You can find out about the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme on the Departments website. You can also check the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme Register.

Remember, only approved workshops can apply to import used vehicles and only approved workshops can carry out the work to make the vehicles comply with the ADRs. Unless you are intending to become an approved RAWS workshop, you must contact a workshop to see if they are interested in handling your vehicle.

You can find out about RAWS, search for approved workshops and the vehicles they are approved to modify.

You will need to contact an approved Registered Automotive Workshop with the details of the vehicle. If the vehicle is eligible, and the workshop wishes to handle your vehicle, the workshop can make an application for a Vehicle Import Approval.

If a Vehicle Import Approval is granted, it will be sent to the workshop in their name. The vehicle can then be imported and must then go to that workshop for modification. When the vehicle is modified, and meets the ADR requirements, an approval is issued to the workshop to fit a Used Import Plate to the vehicle. This plate indicates to the registering authorities that the vehicle is approved under RAWS. The vehicle must also meet any requirements applied by the registering authority, such as roadworthiness, for registration.

Discuss with the workshop any questions relating to the actual import of the vehicle, import costs, modification costs, timing, and similar issues.

Vehicles for Dismantling

The importation of complete vehicles for dismantling purposes is not permitted.