2013/05/09 13:22:50
MR2_Bryce82
Alright, I know this has probably be asked time and time again.. But I can't find any threads that are recent. And therefore, the information may not be correct. 
I have looked into the costs of importing an MR2 turbo from Japan. Now, I know that importing SW20's is or possibly WAS illegal in the past.. But at the moment, I'm having a really hard time actually finding some solid answers! I've searched all over the Australian Government; Department of Infrastructure and Transport website, and haven't been able to find any reason as to why SW20's cannot be imported? 
Previously, I was under the impression that there was a 15 year 'rule', so to speak.. That meant you couldn't import cars more than 15 years old, unless being imported as a 'classic/historic/collectors car'. But, have found no evidence of that restriction? When searching for how I would apply for the correct documents, the site asks; if the car was build, off the assembly line, BEFORE January 1st 1989 or AFTER January 1st 1989. After selecting the second option, it asks if I personally exported the vehicle and would like to import it back to Australia. After selecting 'no' it then asks, whether or not I have owned the vehicle for a period of more than 12 months. After selecting 'no' again.. It then takes me to a short list, three different options.. Saying that I MAY be eligible to apply to import a vehicle under; 'Letter of Compliance Option', 'Discretionary Approvals' or 'Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme'. 

Does anyone have any solids answers? I know it's a stretch, because I see no reason as the why the laws would have changed.. But, without any solid evidence.. I tend to doubt what is or isn't factual! 
2013/05/09 14:02:00
worldwalker
The import restrictions are in place to protect our local car market, hence why we have such crap cars. It means anything that was locally available (SW20) is no eligible for import, except under certain circumstances. 
 
The 15 year rule was introduced to allow cars older than 15 years into the country as an economical alternative to expensive new local cars as this older market wasn't seen as a threat to the local industry... How wrong they were. After a flood of imports between 2002-2005, Nissan's and Toyota's mostly with a fair share of the rest, in 2005 (or 2006) they axed the ruling changing it to a cut off date of 1989. 
 
From what I understand, now the only eligible imports are on the SEVS register. Have a search through prestige imports website, they have all the details you need as to what can and can't be imported now.
2013/05/09 14:40:54
maj
Yep exactly what Worldwalker said.
 
15 year rule is no more, it's either pre Jan '89 rule, or SEVS (specialist and enthuiast vehicle register).
The only other rule is a personal import rule, which is where if you are an Australian citizen whom lives overseas, if you bought a car while you were there and have proof you owned it for at least 12 months whilst living permanently overseas, you are eligible to import that car back into Australia, regardless whether it is on SEVS or not. The car still has to be able to comply with ADR's though in order to be registered.
 
There are also restrictions on how many vehicles you are allowed to import under SEVS, I believe no more than one car in an 18 month period.
http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/imports/index.aspx
 
SEVS register
http://rvcs-prodweb.dot.gov.au/sevs/sevsindex.htm
2013/05/09 15:51:55
MR2_Bryce82
And sense was finally made! 
Thanks for the help guys, much appreciated! 

Definitely helps when you know where you should be looking haha..
2013/05/09 16:26:05
dylmrt
going through the list... you can bring in an Ariel Atom!!
2013/05/09 16:36:00
MR2_Bryce82
Now that would be one hell of an experience! I would probably be s***ting bricks behind the wheel of one of em!! 
2013/05/09 18:50:46
dennis the menace
But what a fun way to stay regular . . .
2013/05/09 18:57:08
worldwalker
I saw one in Lilydale a few years ago, unfortunately I was late for work so didn't get to have a better look and never saw it again. 
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