Bringing a vehicle into Australia isn’t as simple as shipping it over and driving off into the sunset. Australia has strict rules and regulations when it comes to vehicle imports, and for good reason—these rules ensure safety, environmental protection, and consistency across all vehicles on Australian roads. Under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA), there are several different schemes for importing vehicles, and each one has specific eligibility criteria. Let’s take a closer look at these schemes and what you need to know to successfully import a vehicle into Australia.
Why Are Importing Schemes Necessary?
Australia’s vehicle import rules exist to make sure every car, motorcycle, truck, and trailer meets the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) a set of national standards that cover safety, emissions, and anti-theft measures. These standards help keep drivers and passengers safe, protect the environment, and ensure vehicles are fit for Australian conditions.
The different importing schemes recognize that not all vehicles fit the same mold. Whether you’re importing a rare sports car, a beloved family vehicle, or a classic motorcycle, there’s likely a specific scheme designed to cover your situation.
The Different Vehicle Importing Schemes
Let’s break down the main importing schemes in Australia, how they work, and who they’re for.
1. Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS)
If you’re looking to import a unique or rare vehicle that isn’t readily available in Australia, SEVS is the scheme for you. It’s designed for vehicles with special features like high performance, rarity, or significant historical value.
Eligibility:
- The vehicle must not already be widely available in Australia.
- It must meet at least one of SEVS’ specific criteria, such as:
- High performance (like specific sports cars)
- Environmental technology (like electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles)
- Classic status (historically significant models)
- Vehicles produced in limited numbers
Important Points:
- SEVS vehicles often require modifications to meet Australian Design Rules.
- You’ll likely need to go through the Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme (RAWS) to ensure compliance.
2. Personal Import Scheme
Moving to Australia and want to bring your personal vehicle along? The Personal Import Scheme is perfect for you. This pathway allows individuals relocating to Australia to import a vehicle they’ve personally owned and used overseas.
Eligibility:
- You must have owned and used the vehicle for at least 12 continuous months prior to import.
- You must be a permanent Australian resident or obtaining permanent residency.
- The vehicle must be intended for personal use and not for resale.
Important Points:
- The vehicle still needs to meet basic safety and roadworthiness standards.
- Modifications may be required to ensure compliance with ADRs.
- You’ll need documentation like proof of ownership and overseas registration.
3. Vehicles Over 25 Years Old (Classic Vehicles)
Love classic cars? Vehicles over 25 years old can be imported under a specific scheme designed for older models. This scheme acknowledges that classic cars often have different construction and safety standards compared to modern vehicles.
Eligibility:
- The vehicle must be 25 years or older from its build date.
- It can include cars, motorcycles, and certain other types of vehicles.
Important Points:
- While older vehicles are exempt from some modern standards, they must still meet basic safety and roadworthiness requirements.
- You may need to make modifications for lighting, seatbelts, or emissions control.
- This scheme is often used by car enthusiasts and collectors.
4. Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme (RAWS)
RAWS allows approved workshops to import and modify certain used vehicles, especially those listed under SEVS. These workshops ensure the vehicles meet Australian standards before they hit the road.
Eligibility:
- The vehicle must be on the SEVS eligibility list.
- It must undergo modifications and compliance work by an approved RAWS workshop.
Important Points:
- The RAWS workshop handles most of the compliance process.
- Once the modifications are complete, the vehicle gets a compliance plate, certifying it meets ADRs.
- RAWS is often used for performance vehicles and rare imports.
5. New Vehicle Approval Scheme
Bringing in a brand-new car straight from the factory? This scheme applies to new vehicles already designed and built to meet Australian standards.
Eligibility:
- The vehicle must be brand new, not previously registered or used.
- It must meet full ADR compliance.
Important Points:
- Typically used by manufacturers and dealers, but private buyers can also apply.
- The vehicle can go straight to registration after customs clearance.
6. Testing and Evaluation Scheme
Sometimes vehicles need to be brought in for research, development, or promotional purposes. This temporary scheme allows vehicles to enter the country for non-road use or limited testing.
Eligibility:
- Vehicles imported for research, testing, or promotional display.
- They mustn’t be intended for long-term road use.
Important Points:
- Often used by automotive companies and engineering firms.
- These vehicles may not need full compliance with ADRs.
- The vehicle must be exported or destroyed after the testing period unless it’s approved for continued use.
7. Race and Rally Scheme
If you’re bringing in a vehicle specifically for motorsport events, the Race and Rally Scheme provides a streamlined pathway.
Eligibility:
- The vehicle must be intended for race, rally, or motorsport purposes only.
- Proof of entry into recognized motorsport events is required.
Important Points:
- Vehicles cannot be registered for general road use without additional compliance work.
- The vehicle may need safety modifications suited to motorsport standards.
How to Choose the Right Scheme
Choosing the right import scheme depends on the type of vehicle and the reason for import. Here are some things to consider:
- Is the vehicle rare or collectible? SEVS might be your best bet.
- Are you moving to Australia with your personal car? Personal Import Scheme is for you.
- Is the vehicle over 25 years old? The Classic Vehicle scheme will simplify things.
- Does the vehicle need modifications? You’ll likely need RAWS.
- Is it brand new and fully compliant? New Vehicle Approval is the easiest route.