Understanding Australian customs rules is essential for any individual or business importing or exporting goods to and from Australia. The Australian Border Force (ABF) enforces strict regulations on the movement of items across its borders, designed to protect public health, national security, and the country’s unique environment and economy.
Start a quote or make a booking
Import Regulations
Australia has comprehensive customs procedures for all imported goods, whether arriving by air freight, sea freight, courier, or postal service. Every shipment must be accurately declared and comply with all legal, biosecurity, and duty-related requirements.
Commercial imports must be accompanied by a commercial invoice, packing declaration, and often a certificate of origin. Personal items may also require customs declarations and are subject to duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) if their value exceeds AUD $1,000. Certain goods—including prescription drugs, firearms, chemical products, and foodstuffs—require import permits and may be prohibited altogether if they pose health, safety, or environmental risks.
Australian customs rules prohibit or restrict many items. These include:
Weapons and firearms, including replicas, parts, and ammunition
Hazardous chemicals, such as asbestos and certain pesticides
Cultural heritage goods, including items bearing protected national emblems
Endangered animal products, governed under CITES regulations
Certain food and plant items, which may carry pests or diseases
For a complete, updated list, refer to official documentation from the Australian Border Force or trusted customs brokerage services.
Export Rules and Controlled Goods
Exports from Australia are subject to compliance checks, especially when shipping defence-related goods, narcotics, cultural artefacts, or biological materials.
Businesses may require export licences issued by the Department of Defence or the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Customs authorities also ensure that exported goods comply with international sanctions, origin labelling, and anti-money laundering laws.
All imported items are assessed for customs duties and GST unless specifically exempt. These charges are determined using the tariff classification system (HS codes), item value, and country of origin. Businesses should ensure that all paperwork reflects accurate classification to avoid delays and fines.
Using a licensed customs broker or freight forwarder is often the best way to ensure full compliance. These professionals can assist in lodging entries via the Integrated Cargo System (ICS), determining the correct duty rates, and securing release of goods efficiently.
Australia’s biosecurity framework is one of the strictest in the world. Importers must follow laws enforced by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Goods such as fresh produce, untreated wood, meat, and live animals are routinely inspected. If found non-compliant, items may be seized, treated, re-exported, or destroyed at the importer’s expense.
What documents are needed to import goods into Australia?
To import goods into Australia, you typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and possibly a certificate of origin. Depending on the product, you may also need permits from agencies like the Department of Agriculture or the Australian Border Force.
Are there items that cannot be shipped to Australia?
Yes. Prohibited items include weapons, certain chemicals, prescription drugs without permits, asbestos, counterfeit goods, and some biological materials. Restrictions also apply to food, plants, and animal products.
How are customs duties and GST calculated on imports?
Customs duties and GST are based on the item’s customs value (usually the transaction value), its tariff classification (HS code), and country of origin. These charges are collected at the time of customs clearance.
Packed & Less Than 30kg?