How to Import Electronics & Technology to Australia

Step-by-Step Import Process

1. 1

   Classify your electronics

   Determine the correct tariff classification using the Australian Customs Tariff. Consumer electronics, components, telecommunications equipment, and IT hardware fall under different HS chapters. Many finished IT products (computers, monitors, printers) enter duty-free under the Information Technology Agreement (ITA).

2. 2

   Check electrical safety requirements

   Determine whether your product is a "declared" or "in-scope" electrical article under the EESS. Declared articles (high-risk, like power supplies and chargers) must be registered with the relevant state regulator and tested by an accredited laboratory. In-scope articles must meet applicable safety standards.

3. 3

   Verify ACMA compliance for radio devices

   Products that transmit or receive radio signals (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, NFC) must comply with ACMA standards and carry a compliance label. Check the ACMA supplier compliance register to understand labelling requirements for your product class.

4. 4

   Engage a licensed customs broker

   Choose a broker with experience in electronics imports. They can advise on ITA duty-free eligibility, manage any ACMA or EESS documentation requirements, and coordinate with your freight forwarder.

5. 5

   Prepare import documentation

   Assemble your commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and any test reports or certificates of conformity. For products containing lithium batteries, ensure your shipper has completed the required dangerous goods documentation for air or sea freight.

6. 6

   Lodge your import declaration

   Your customs broker lodges the import declaration through the Integrated Cargo System. Ensure the declared customs value includes any licence fees, royalties, or tooling costs that form part of the transaction value.

7. 7

   Pay duties, taxes, and collect your goods

   Pay applicable customs duty (if any — many electronics enter duty-free under the ITA) and 10% GST. Arrange last-mile delivery and ensure products are correctly labelled with Australian safety marks before distributing to retailers or end customers.

Key Regulations

The Electrical Equipment Safety System (EESS) requires electrical products to meet Australian safety standards before sale. High-risk "declared" articles must be registered with the state electrical safety regulator and carry a regulatory compliance mark (RCM).

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulates devices that use radio spectrum. Products must carry an ACMA compliance label and meet the applicable technical standards for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and radio emissions.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) enforces mandatory safety and information standards for consumer products. Some electronics categories (e.g., portable power packs) have specific mandatory standards.

Products containing lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods for transport purposes. Shippers must comply with IATA (air) or IMDG (sea) dangerous goods regulations, including correct packaging, labelling, and documentation.

Duties & Tariffs

Many finished electronic and IT products enter Australia duty-free under the World Trade Organization's Information Technology Agreement (ITA). This includes computers, mobile phones, monitors, printers, and most components.

Products not covered by the ITA — such as consumer electronics with entertainment functions (TVs, audio equipment) — may attract customs duty of 5%. The specific rate depends on the tariff classification.

GST of 10% applies to all imported electronics regardless of duty status. Businesses registered for GST can claim input tax credits.

Official Sources

Verify the information in this guide against these official government resources.

• EESS — Electrical Equipment Safety System

  National register for electrical equipment safety declarations and registrations.

• ACMA — Supplier Compliance

  ACMA requirements for labelling and compliance of radio communications equipment.

• ABF — Information Technology Agreement

  Look up whether your electronics product qualifies for duty-free entry under the ITA.

• ACCC — Product Safety

  Mandatory safety standards and recalls for consumer electronics.