GST and imported goods

Terms we use When we say: you, we mean you as a GST-registered business or organisation or a private individual GST credit, we are referring to the GST term input tax credit.

Goods and services tax (GST) is payable on most goods imported into Australia (taxable importations).

GST on a taxable importation is payable by businesses, organisations and private individuals, whether they are registered for GST or not. However, if you are a GST-registered business or organisation and you import goods as part of your activities, you may be able to claim a GST credit for any GST you pay on those goods.

Payment of GST on imported goods

The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service (Customs and Border Protection) collects GST on taxable importations. The GST payable is 10% of the value of the taxable importation.

The value of taxable importation is the sum of:

• the customs value of the goods
• any customs duty payable
• the amount paid or payable to transport the goods to their place of consignment in Australia
• the insurance cost for that transport
• any wine tax payable.

Generally, GST is payable before the goods are released by Customs and Border Protection. If you are not registered under the deferred GST scheme then the GST is payable at the same time, at the same place, and in the same manner as you would customs duty (or would be payable if the goods are subject to customs duty).

Sections within Payment of GST on imported goods

• Can you defer the payment of GST on imported goods?
• When is an assessment made on imported goods?