Australia, with its vast coastline and maritime activities, is a significant market for imported vessels, including pleasure crafts, commercial ships and other maritime assets.

However, importing a vessel into Australia needs to be carefully considered before contracts are signed, as the tax and duty implications can be costly. Importation involves various regulations, and the goods and services tax (GST) and customs duty are crucial to consider.

While this article cannot and does not provide specific advice, it provides a framework to consider when importing vessels. Further, by correcting misinformation that appears on websites, it clarifies the implications of GST and customs duty when importing vessels into Australia, explores its applications as well as exemptions and compliance requirements, plus potential impacts on boat owners and import businesses alike.