In Reply to: thanks, its a tricky one posted by iguanabw on Tuesday, 10. February 2009 at 02:25 Bali Time:
If the invoice total does not exceed AU$1000 it is not necessary to use a broker to clear the goods.
The system should be much the same, irrespective of your port of entry back to Australia.
My experiences in Sydney have been quite simple and staightforward.
Having ticked the appropriate boxes and handed in your form, the contents of your luggage will be subject to the normal Customs inspection (and Quarantine if necessary).
You will then be escorted to the " Duty Payable " counter where you need to produce invoices to confirm that the value of the goods does in fact not exceed AU$1000.
This officer may request to inspect the goods to satisfy himself/herself that the invoice does represent a fair value of the goods. Undervaluing and/or understating the quantity is not a sensible option.
Duty and GST is then calculated, and upon payment you are free to go.
Following correct process will not cause any closer "checks" in the future.
Being caught being deceitful or dishonest certainly will!!
I hope this helps.
Barry.