 Changes to Australian customs by-laws governing passenger and crew duty-free concessions are to be implemented from February 1 2005, after recommendations for amendments were approved by the Australian Federal Government.
With the changes, passengers and crew members will be able to enjoy importations or inwards duty free purchases in accompanied baggage of up to AUD$900 worth of goods which will be free from duty and or tax provided that this limit is not exceeded. Family members travelling together will be allowed to pool concessions.
If the maximum limit is exceeded in one or more of the categories stated below, duty and tax will be charged on the entire importation or purchase within that category.
No changes have been made to the custom by-laws governing most personal items, such as new clothing, footwear and articles for personal hygiene/grooming which can still be brought into Australia duty and tax free.
Category One
AUD$900 worth of goods (AUD$450 for people under 18 and crew members), whether obtained overseas; purchased in Australia on a duty/tax free basis before departure; purchased from an inwards duty free shop; or for which a refund of tax has been approved through the Tourist Refund Scheme.
Examples of goods include gifts, souvenirs, cameras, electronic equipment, leather goods, perfume concentrates, jewellery, watches and sporting goods. Alcohol and tobacco products cannot be included in this allowance.
Category Two
2.25 litres of alcoholic beverages for each traveller 18 years or over.
Category Three
250 cigarettes or 250 grams of cigars or tobacco products for each traveller 18 years or over.
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