Duty Drawback Customs Brokers

Duty drawback is a refund of customs duty paid on imported goods that are subsequently exported from Australia — either in their original form or after being used in a manufacturing process. The scheme is administered by the Australian Border Force under the Customs Act 1901 and can represent significant savings for businesses that import materials for re-export.

To claim drawback, you must demonstrate that duty was paid on the original import and that the goods (or products manufactured from them) have been exported. Claims must be lodged within four years of the original import date. The ABF requires detailed documentation linking the import entry to the export shipment, including evidence of duty paid and proof of export.

A customs broker experienced in duty drawback manages the entire claims process — identifying eligible transactions, compiling supporting documentation, lodging claims through the ICS, and responding to ABF verification requests. For manufacturers who regularly import materials and export finished goods, brokers can establish systematic drawback programs that capture all eligible refunds.