TL;DR: Australia applies GST to imported goods. For goods worth A$1,000 or less, GST may be collected at the point of sale by an overseas seller registered for Australian GST, and above A$1,000, GST, customs duty and clearance charges are generally charged at the border. Thresholds and rates can change, and they apply differently depending on how a parcel is sent and who collects the tax, so please check the current rules with the Australian authorities. The customer pays import duty and tax, and we explain what to expect in writing before you order. Pieces start from £600.
What GST is
GST is Australia's goods and services tax. Imported goods can attract GST, and some can also attract customs duty. A ring is a valuable item, so you should expect it to be assessed.
The thresholds
You may have heard of a value threshold below which some imports are treated differently. Thresholds exist to reduce paperwork for low value parcels, and they have different effects on tax collection and on customs procedures. A bespoke ring is likely to be above any low value threshold, so please do not assume it will pass without being assessed. Check the current position before you order.
Who collects
Tax can be collected by the carrier, by an agent or at the border, depending on the circumstances. Be ready to pay on delivery, and make sure someone can receive the parcel. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask covers the basics.
The value on the form
We declare the value of your order on the customs paperwork. Our guide on why the true value goes on a customs form explains why we cannot understate it, and our guide to reading your invoice and certificate shows what the invoice contains.
Planning your budget
Allow for the ring price plus GST and any duty. We are jewellers, not tax advisers, so we cannot give you an exact figure. We explain what to expect in writing before you order.
A sensible checklist before you order
- Look up the current rules on the Australian government website for imported goods.
- Decide a total budget that includes the ring, tax and any duty, with a margin.
- Ask us what will be on the paperwork, so there are no surprises.
- Choose a delivery address where someone can receive and sign for a valuable parcel.
- Keep the invoice and any emails, in case a customs officer asks for them.
Common misunderstandings
- Thinking a threshold means no tax at all. It may only change how and when tax is collected.
- Assuming a low declared value is allowed. It is not, and it can cause serious problems.
- Forgetting that exchange rates change the amount in Australian dollars.
- Planning a surprise without allowing time for customs.
If the parcel is held
Respond promptly to requests for information and keep your invoice to hand. Our guide to what to do if a ring is held at customs explains the steps.
Working with us
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx. Our guide to buying from the UK as a New Zealander shows a similar route for a neighbouring country.
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay GST on a ring from the UK?
Likely, yes. The customer pays import duty and tax.
Is there a threshold?
Yes. The Australian Taxation Office uses A$1,000 as the line for low value imported goods, but it changes how GST is collected rather than removing it. A bespoke ring is likely to exceed it. Check current rules.
Can you mark the value lower?
No. We declare the value of your order for customs purposes.
Is delivery insured?
Yes, insured and tracked.