Australia
Importing a JDM to Australia.
Duty 5% · GST 10% · RAWS workshop · 25-year rule · RHD native
Indicative cost overview
| Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Import duty | 5% |
| GST | 10% |
| RAWS compliance (typical) | Varies* |
| Luxury Car Tax (if applicable) | Check threshold |
| RHD conversion | Not required |
*RAWS is delivered through an approved workshop; total depends on vehicle category and work required.
Detailed costs
Australia taxes imports with duty and GST. A Luxury Car Tax may apply above the LCT threshold for high-value vehicles. Budget shipping to an Australian port, quarantine cleaning if required, compliance plate work through a RAWS-authorized workshop, and state registration (stamp duty varies by state).
RAWS compliance
The Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme allows approved businesses to import and modify vehicles to Australian Design Rules. Your JDM is brought onto the RAWS plate system after inspection and any required changes.
Choose a workshop experienced with your chassis code—Skyline, Supra, Silvia workflows differ.
25-year import rule
Australia restricts non-RAWS paths for newer imports; many enthusiasts target vehicles that satisfy the 25-year concession (verify current Department of Infrastructure rules before purchasing). Eligibility and documentation must match federal requirements.
RHD
Australia drives on the left, like Japan—so Japanese RHD cars match local traffic with no steering conversion for typical JDM imports.
Common questions
What is RAWS for JDM imports?+
Does the 25-year rule apply to all Japanese imports?+
Do I need to convert RHD to LHD in Australia?+
Next steps
Estimate taxes and homologation for your build in our calculator, review how we work from Japan to your door, brush up on JDM terms, or talk to the team.