Customs regulations Australia

Importing goods can help your business meet its goals and provide goods to customers that may not be available locally.

Exporting can open a business to new markets, spread risk by reducing dependence on the local market and increase your competitiveness.

Licensing and permits

Whilst there is no general licence required for importing, Australian Customs will need to clear your goods on import. You'll need to know:

• and whether they are subject to mandatory safety or information standards.

If you don't follow the correct steps and regulations, you will risk breaking the law and not receiving your imports.

Australian Customs requirements for imports

All goods imported into Australia must be cleared through the border. DIBP can provide you with information on importing goods, such as import clearance requirements, prohibited goods and import permits.

Depending on the type and value of the goods or products you import, there may be costs involved. These can include clearance fees, customs duty, goods and services tax (GST) and other taxes.

Some goods may carry special restrictions or may even be prohibited from being imported. If your goods contain industrial chemicals like cosmetics, solvents, adhesives, plastics, inks, printing and photocopying chemicals, paints, household cleaning products and toiletries, they will require additional registration.

Are you ready to export?

Successful exporting takes careful planning and commitment. You'll need to make sure you meet exporting requirements and regulations and that you have a solid export plan in place.

Understanding and preparing for risks associated with exporting before you get started can be crucial. These risks include foreign exchange, political, shipping, quarantine and legal issues. Integrating risks into your business or export plan can help you mitigate them.

As an exporter, you can also access a range of support services through Austrade, as well as financial assistance through state and territory governments.

Australian Customs requirements for exporting

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection will need to clear your goods for export. You also need to know what restrictions and export regulations apply.

Efic's Small Business Export Loan

With Efic's Small Business Export Loan, you'll get:

• A loan designed for small business exporters - Efic focuses on your ability to service the loan, rather than the level of security available.
• Simple application process - You can apply online via EficDirect External Site, Efic's online portal, in as little as 30 minutes.
• Fast approval - You'll receive an indicative offer right after submitting your application. Formal approval will be done in as little as 7 business days. After you accept the offer, funds will be ready within as little as 2 business days.
• Access and confidence - You can have the confidence to take on larger export contracts, knowing you'll have the funds to do it.

Export goods online

Exporting online can be a cost-effective way of entering the overseas market. Online tools commonly used to market internationally include websites, e-mail, e-marketplaces and collaboration tools.

Protect your international intellectual property (IP)

As well as registering in Australia, you can apply to register a trade mark, patent or design in overseas countries. This is particularly important when you export goods or sell goods and services over the internet. You should also ensure that your export goods will not infringe the IP of others in the overseas market.