You can import a used car from Japan to Australia only through an approved pathway, and you need a vehicle import approval from the Department of Infrastructure before you ship it. Vehicles built more than 25 years ago can use the older-vehicle pathway; newer cars need another approval pathway. Autocom Japan, with 900,000+ cars exported to 100+ countries, helps you find the car and prepares the export documents in Japan.
Importing a car from Japan to Australia: rules for 2026
Age rule
Under the older-vehicle pathway the vehicle must have been built more than 25 years ago; if no month is known, December of the build year is assumed. Newer vehicles need a different approval pathway.
Older-vehicle pathway only; other pathways apply to newer vehicles.
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Duty, taxes and official rules
We never quote government duty or tax — it depends on the car and changes often. Use the official pages below or ask a licensed clearing agent.
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Sources
Rules change. We checked these rules on 1 October 2026. Always confirm with our office before you pay.