Australia has long had a fascination with Japanese cars. From sporty icons like the Nissan Skyline and Toyota Supra to reliable everyday models such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, Japanese vehicles combine performance, innovation, and affordability. For enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, importing a car directly from Japan can be an exciting way to access models not commonly available in local dealerships. But the process is complex, and understanding the rules, costs, and logistics is essential.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about importing Japanese cars into Australia today.
Why Import a Car from Japan?
Japanese cars are popular imports for several reasons:
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Variety of models: Japan’s domestic market often features vehicles not sold in Australia, including rare sports cars and kei cars.
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High quality: Japanese owners typically maintain their cars meticulously, and strict roadworthiness laws mean vehicles are often in excellent condition.
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Value for money: Even after shipping and compliance costs, imported cars can be cheaper than local equivalents.
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Collector appeal: Classic models like the Mazda RX‑7 or Toyota AE86 are highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Understanding Australian Import Regulations
Importing a car isn’t as simple as buying one overseas and shipping it home. Australia has strict rules to ensure safety, environmental compliance, and consumer protection.
Key frameworks include:
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Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA): Governs which vehicles can be imported and how they must comply with Australian standards.
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Import Approval: You must apply for approval from the Department of Infrastructure before shipping the car. Without this, your vehicle may be refused entry.
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Eligible Vehicle Schemes: Cars can be imported under specific schemes, such as:
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Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS) for rare or performance models.
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Personal Import Scheme if you’ve owned and used the car overseas for more than 12 months.
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Older Vehicles Scheme for cars manufactured before January 1, 1989.
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Choosing the Right Car in Japan
Before you start paperwork, you need to select the right vehicle.
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Auction houses: Japan has a huge network of car auctions, offering everything from daily drivers to rare classics.
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Export agents: Many companies specialize in helping international buyers navigate auctions, inspections, and shipping.
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Condition reports: Japanese auctions provide detailed grading systems, so you can assess the car’s condition before bidding.
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Budget planning: Factor in not just the purchase price but also shipping, insurance, compliance, and registration costs.
Shipping Options and Costs
Once you’ve purchased your car, the next step is shipping it to Australia.
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Roll‑on/Roll‑off (RoRo): The most common method, where cars are driven onto the ship and secured. It’s cost‑effective but offers less protection.
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Container shipping: More expensive but safer, especially for high‑value or rare vehicles. Cars are loaded into containers, protecting them from damage and theft.
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Insurance: Always insure your vehicle during transit. Shipping companies typically offer marine insurance policies.
Costs vary depending on the port of departure in Japan and arrival in Australia, but expect to pay several thousand dollars for shipping alone.
Taxes, Duties, and Compliance Costs
Importing a car involves more than shipping fees. Australia requires several payments before your car can hit the road:
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Customs duty: Usually 5% of the car’s value.
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Goods and Services Tax (GST): 10% applied to the car’s value plus shipping and duty.
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Luxury Car Tax (LCT): Applies if the car’s value exceeds a certain threshold (around AUD $80,000 for fuel‑efficient vehicles).
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Quarantine inspection fees: Cars must be cleaned thoroughly to avoid biosecurity risks.
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Compliance costs: Imported cars must meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs). This may involve modifications such as child restraint anchor points, emissions adjustments, or lighting changes.
Compliance and Registration
After arrival, your car must pass compliance checks before it can be registered.
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Compliance workshops: Licensed workshops handle modifications and inspections to ensure the car meets ADRs.
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Roadworthy certificate: Required for registration in your state or territory.
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Registration process: Once compliant, you can register the car like any locally purchased vehicle.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Importing a car is exciting, but mistakes can be costly.
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Skipping import approval: Without approval, your car may be seized or exported back at your expense.
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Underestimating costs: Taxes, compliance, and shipping can add up quickly.
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Choosing unreliable agents: Work only with reputable exporters and compliance workshops.
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Ignoring resale value: Some imported cars may be harder to sell locally due to limited demand.
Tips for a Smooth Import Process
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Do your research: Understand which schemes apply to your chosen car.
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Work with professionals: Use experienced import agents and compliance workshops.
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Budget realistically: Include hidden costs like quarantine cleaning and insurance.
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Plan ahead: Import approvals and shipping can take months, so start early.
Importing a Japanese car to Australia is more than just a purchase—it’s a journey. From navigating regulations to choosing the right shipping method, the process requires patience, planning, and attention to detail. But for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, the reward is worth it: access to unique, high‑quality vehicles that embody Japan’s reputation for innovation and reliability.
Whether you’re chasing a rare sports car, a quirky kei car, or simply a well‑maintained daily driver, importing from Japan can turn your automotive dream into reality. With the right preparation, your new car will be cruising Australian roads in no time.
