Save Time And Money This Christmas: Know Australian Import Requirements

Save Time and Money this Christmas Know Australian Import Requirements

With Christmas just around the corner Customs and Border Protection is urging people to check import requirements before buying goods from overseas.

"Don't waste your time and money this Christmas; when shopping online from overseas sites make sure you know Australian import requirements," National Manager Sea Cargo and International Mail Graham Krisohos said.

"Not checking import requirements could mean that your gift doesn't make it under the tree this Christmas," Mr Krisohos said.

Mr Krisohos said that while some items are legal in other countries, such as stun guns, certain types of knives and high intensity laser pointers, they are prohibited in Australia or require permits to be imported.

"Customs and Border Protection screens incoming international mail and our highly skilled officers are trained to detect prohibited and restricted items.

"If your package contains a prohibited or restricted item, and if you do not have appropriate permission to import the item, it will be seized and destroyed," Mr Krisohos said.

Websites may claim that certain items can be brought into Australia; however this information is not always correct, so it is important to check with Customs and Border Protection before you buy.

All goods (except for tobacco products and alcoholic beverages) may be imported duty and tax free if their value is $1,000 or less.

To find out more information about import requirements contact the Customs and Border Protection Information and Support Centre on 1300 363 263 or at [email protected] .


Goods commonly purchased over the internet that are restricted and may be seized by Customs and Border Protection include:

* wildlife souvenirs and products
* videos, DVDs, CDs or books with objectionable content
* performance and image enhancing drugs
* high intensity laser pointers
* weapons

NOTE TO EDITORS: Images of seized items are available in the media image
gallery at www.customs.gov.au



Media enquiries:
For further details contact Customs and Border Protection Communication and Media (02) 6275 6793



SOURCE: Customs and Border Protection