Australia's 25-Year Rule: Importing a Classic Car from the UK

Under the Road Vehicle Standards Act, vehicles manufactured at least 25 years before the import date qualify for the 'older vehicles' pathway. It is a rolling rule: in 2026, cars built in or before 2001 (by month of manufacture) can qualify. You still need an import approval, but you avoid most modern Australian Design Rule compliance work.

Land Rover Series and early Defenders, classic Mini, Jaguar E-Type and XJ, early Range Rover Classic, MGB, Triumph TR and Stag, Ford Escort and Capri, and 1990s performance cars such as the Impreza and Lotus Elise are all regular exports. Right-hand drive makes UK cars particularly attractive in Australia.

Customs duty is generally 5% of the customs value. GST of 10% is charged on the value plus duty and freight. Luxury Car Tax (LCT) applies above the annual threshold at 33% of the excess — high-value classics can attract a large LCT bill, so get a valuation before you buy.

Classics must be spotless underneath — Australian biosecurity inspects every vehicle for soil, seeds and insects. Australia also bans asbestos, which was used in older brake, clutch and gasket parts. Many owners obtain an asbestos-free certificate from an approved inspector before shipping to avoid delays.

Container shipping is recommended for most classics for security and weather protection. RoRo from Southampton is available from our published Australia rate of £1,795 for a saloon. Transit is about 6–8 weeks to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Fremantle or Adelaide.