In Reply to: not quite untrue posted by Amanda_kym on Thursday, 18. November 2004 at 19:48 Bali Time:
I totally agree with Amanda that this little item should not develop into a debate on Australian tax law. However, as the basic aim of this forum is to exchange experiences and help the new or first time traveller I would hate to see any information given out that may be accepted as fact and end in embarrassment, or worse. It may well be true that many of us have managed to bring goods home that were in excess of the allowances and were lucky enough to have met a friendly Customs Officer who let them through on that occasion. This does not mean it is legal. A quick visit to the Customs website (www.customs.gov.au) has all of the details explaining the situation. Paramount amongst these is the explanation contained in the phamplet "A Guide For Travellers". Here it is pointed out, quite clearly, that "Goods bought overseas or bought duty/tax free before leaving Australia are included when determining your duty free allowance". It has nothing whatever to do with whether or not the goods have been subjected to some form of tax or duty in the country of origin. Similarly, goods bought as gifts/souvenirs together with items purchased for personal use are limited, technically to a total of $400, including booze and tobacco. We all know that this last aspect, excuding booze and tobacco, is very rarely enforced and we have all met Customs Officers who are willing to bend the rules a little. However, as I said earlier I just want to let people know what the rules actually states o that they are in a better position to make a judgement as to just how far they are willing to go when bringing stuff home.
To finish off just enjoy while you are away. The duty free exemptions are now under review, especially for tobacco so may well cease to be a problem before very long.
Cheers
Maverick