Australia.
Import with clarity.

Australia is one of the most regulated vehicle import markets in the world. While importing a Japanese vehicle is possible, not every vehicle is eligible.

Imported vehicles must comply with the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA), obtain an import approval through the ROVER system, satisfy the applicable import pathway, meet the Australian Design Rules (ADR) where required, clear customs and biosecurity inspections, and be registered in the relevant Australian state or territory.

Yes, but Australia does not allow unrestricted importation of used vehicles. Most vehicles are imported through one of the following pathways:

• 25-Year Rule (vehicles at least 25 years old)
• Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS)
• Personal Import Scheme
• Returning Australian-owned vehicle
• Other limited approval categories under Australian law. If a vehicle does not qualify under an approved pathway, it generally cannot be imported for road use.

Before shipping a vehicle from Japan, you must obtain an import approval through the Australian Government's ROVER online system. Without approval:

• Your vehicle may be refused entry.
• Customs clearance may be delayed.
• Additional storage costs may apply.
• Importation may breach Australian law.

Vehicles that are 25 years old or older may qualify under Australia's older vehicle import pathway. Benefits include:

• Easier approval process than many newer vehicles.
• Popular for classic and collector vehicles.
• Registration requirements still vary by state or territory. Examples include:
• Nissan Skyline GT-R (older generations)
• Toyota Supra (classic models)
• Mazda RX-7
• Honda NSX (eligible older models)

Newer used vehicles may be imported if they are listed under the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS). Typical requirements include:

• The model is listed as eligible.
• Compliance work is completed through a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) where applicable.
• The vehicle is entered on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) before registration.

Imported vehicles must comply with applicable Australian Design Rules (ADR). Compliance may involve:

• Lighting modifications
• Child restraint anchor points
• Speedometer requirements
• Emissions compliance
• Safety equipment
• Other technical modifications depending on the vehicle and import pathway.

Australia has strict biosecurity controls. Every imported vehicle is inspected by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). Inspectors check for:

• Soil
• Seeds
• Insects
• Plant material
• Animal contamination Vehicles that are not sufficiently clean may require professional cleaning before release, which can add time and cost.

Imported vehicles may be subject to:

• Import Duty (often 5% of the customs value, subject to eligibility and trade rules)
• Goods and Services Tax (GST) (generally 10%)
• Luxury Car Tax (LCT) if the vehicle value exceeds the applicable threshold
• Port and customs processing charges The total payable amount depends on the customs value, shipping costs, insurance, vehicle type, and current legislation. Obtain a current landed-cost estimate before purchasing.

Typical documents include:

• Vehicle Import Approval
• Bill of Lading
• Commercial Invoice
• Export Certificate (Japan)
• Purchase Invoice
• Photo Identification
• Shipping documents
• Customs declarations
• Compliance documentation (where applicable) Additional documents may be requested depending on the import pathway.

Japanese vehicles commonly arrive at:

• Sydney
• Melbourne
• Brisbane
• Fremantle (Perth)
• Adelaide After arrival, the vehicle must complete customs and biosecurity clearance before any compliance work or registration.

Popular imported models include:

1. Confirm the vehicle is eligible for import. 2. Apply for Vehicle Import Approval through ROVER. 3. Purchase the vehicle in Japan. 4. Arrange export documentation. 5. Ship the vehicle to Australia. 6. Complete customs and biosecurity clearance. 7. Carry out any required ADR compliance work. 8.

Complete approval and registration requirements. 9. Register the vehicle in your state or territory. 10. Obtain compulsory insurance before driving on public roads.

Many Australians choose Japanese imports because they offer:

• Excellent build quality
• Lower mileage than many local used vehicles
• Unique models not officially sold in Australia
• Strong reliability
• High-performance enthusiast vehicles
• Good value for money

At 360 Moto Japan, we assist Australian customers with:

• Vehicle sourcing from Japan
• Japanese auction bidding
• Independent vehicle inspections
• Export documentation
• RoRo and container shipping
• Freight quotations
• Vehicle eligibility guidance
• Personal Buying Agent services
• End-to-end export support

The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and is based on regulations available at the time of publication.

Import laws, customs duties, taxes, vehicle eligibility, inspection requirements, shipping procedures, and registration rules may change without prior notice and can vary depending on the destination country and local authorities.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest import requirements with the relevant customs, transport, and government authorities before purchasing or importing a vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all information remains current or error-free and accept no liability for any changes in regulations or additional costs incurred after purchase.