importing a car from the uk to australia

Importing a car from the UK to Australia is doable, but it’s not a quick Bunnings run. Apply for import approval via the federal ROVER portal before the car leaves Britain, and make sure it’s eligible (SEVS, the 25-year rule, or a bona fide Personal Import) and asbestos-free.

Budget for shipping and port charges, then taxes: 10% GST, possible import duty (0–5% depending on tariff/FTA), and Luxury Car Tax if you smash the thresholds. Once it lands, it’ll face biosecurity cleaning, compliance work to meet ADR requirements, and state rego checks.

UK cars are right-hand drive, which helps, but paperwork discipline is everything—missteps cost time and dollars. Do the sums; sometimes buying locally on Tradingpost is cheaper, and you still get to argue about paint colours. Consult official documentation for exact figures.