The Australian government confirmed today that starting in 2018, import laws will be relaxed on new, used and classic car imports into the country. Australians will be able to get their hands on a greater variety of new cars, while also saving a bundle on classic car imports.
Australian New Car Imports
When the last car manufacturers leave Australia in 2018, relaxed car import laws will provide a form of relief to new car buyers. Similar to the current parallel import laws in China, Australians will be able to import new cars without having to go through local dealers. It is not only expected to drive new car prices down, but it will also open the door to a wider range of models and options which were never offered in Australia.
However, there are a few caveats on new car imports:
- Car buyers will be limited to purchasing once every two years
- Vehicles must have comparable standards to Australia (currently only the UK and Japan)
- Vehicle must be right hand drive, no older than 12 months old, and have no more than 500km on the odometer
- Vehicles will be required to register in an online database
Australian Classic Car Imports
Used classic and exotic car buyers can also breathe a sigh of relief. The government will relax the import laws on classic cars and collectible cars provided that they are over 25 years old, or are on the register of specialist and enthusiast vehicles. They are also removing the $12,000 special import duty on such vehicles. Expect to see a lot more American classic cars in 2018!
