How to Import Mining & Resources Equipment to Australia
Guide to importing mining equipment, mineral processing machinery, and resources sector goods into Australia. Covers safety standards, permits, and customs requirements.
Last reviewed: 2026-03-10
Overview
Australia is one of the world's largest mining nations, and the sector regularly imports specialised equipment, replacement parts, and processing machinery from overseas manufacturers. Importing mining and resources goods involves navigating safety certification requirements administered by state-based mine safety regulators alongside federal border controls managed by the Australian Border Force (ABF).
Mining equipment is often high-value project cargo that may qualify for concessional duty rates under specific tariff concession orders (TCOs). The importation of goods containing hazardous substances — such as explosives, chemicals used in mineral processing, or radioactive source equipment — triggers additional regulatory requirements under the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 and state-based dangerous goods legislation.
Working with a customs broker experienced in mining imports can help you identify applicable tariff concessions, manage the documentation for oversized or heavy-lift cargo, and ensure compliance with Australian safety standards before goods arrive at the border.
Step-by-Step Import Process
Classify your goods
Determine the correct tariff classification for your mining equipment using the Australian Customs Tariff. Heavy machinery, drill rigs, conveyor systems, and mineral processing equipment each fall under different HS headings. Accurate classification directly affects the duty rate you'll pay and whether concessions apply.
Check safety and compliance requirements
Mining equipment must meet relevant Australian safety standards. State mine safety regulators (e.g., NSW Resources Regulator, Queensland Mines Inspectorate) may require equipment to meet specific design and performance standards before it can be used at a mine site. Check whether your equipment requires electrical safety certification or compliance with AS/NZS standards.
Apply for tariff concession orders if eligible
If no Australian manufacturer produces equivalent equipment, you may be eligible for a Tariff Concession Order (TCO) that reduces or eliminates customs duty. TCO applications are lodged with the ABF and can take several months to process, so plan ahead.
Engage a licensed customs broker
Choose a broker experienced with project cargo and mining imports. They can advise on duty concessions, manage transport logistics for oversized items, and coordinate with freight forwarders for heavy-lift shipments.
Prepare import documentation
Assemble your commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and any certificates of conformity. For goods containing hazardous materials, you'll also need safety data sheets (SDS) and potentially an import permit from the relevant state authority.
Lodge your import declaration
Your customs broker lodges the import declaration through the Integrated Cargo System (ICS). For high-value mining equipment, ensure the customs value accurately reflects the transaction value including any design, engineering, or tooling costs paid to the overseas supplier.
Pay duties, taxes, and collect your goods
Pay applicable customs duty and GST. If you've applied for a TCO, you may be able to claim a refund on duty already paid once the concession is granted. Arrange transport from the port — oversized mining equipment may require special permits for road transport.
Key Regulations
The Australian Border Force (ABF) administers customs duty collection and enforces import prohibitions. Mining equipment importers must lodge an import declaration and pay applicable duties and GST before goods are released.
State and territory mine safety regulators oversee equipment safety standards for use in mining operations. Equipment must typically comply with relevant Australian Standards (AS/NZS series) covering electrical safety, structural integrity, and operational safety.
Goods containing hazardous substances such as explosives, certain chemicals, or radioactive materials require additional permits. The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) regulates radioactive source equipment commonly used in mining for density and moisture gauging.
The Anti-Dumping Commission investigates whether imported goods are being sold at below-market prices. Some steel and aluminium products used in mining infrastructure may be subject to anti-dumping duties.
Duties & Tariffs
Customs duty rates for mining equipment vary significantly depending on classification. General-purpose machinery may attract the standard 5% rate, while specialised equipment with no local equivalent may qualify for duty-free entry under a Tariff Concession Order.
GST of 10% applies to the customs value plus duty and transport costs. Businesses registered for GST can claim input tax credits for the GST paid on imported goods.
Use the ABF's online tariff search tool to look up the specific duty rate for your equipment before importing. Your customs broker can also advise on applicable concessions and free trade agreement preferences.
Official Sources
Verify the information in this guide against these official government resources.
- ABF — Importing Goods
Official ABF guide to importing goods into Australia, including declaration requirements.
- ABF — Tariff Concession Orders
Information on applying for TCOs to reduce duty on goods with no local equivalent.
- Australian Customs Tariff — Tariff Search
Look up tariff classifications and duty rates for imported goods.
- ARPANSA — Importing Radiation Sources
Licensing requirements for importing radioactive sources used in mining gauging equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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