Quote:
Originally Posted by Astro_Bot
Also be aware that both of those strategies are dangerous from the point of view of Customs regulations, although the chance of getting caught may be low:
Splitting shipments to avoid duty (where payable) and/or GST may also attract a fine. Where Customs suspects a package to be one of a series that would otherwise be duitiable/taxable, they may hold all your packages until satisfied otherwise.
As mentioned, astronomy products do not attract duty, only GST on amounts over $1000 (including shipping and insurance).
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The point here, I think, Astro_Bot is that Customs are aware that this practice is going on and I am sure the Govt is thinking of ways to do something about it, to ensure tax is paid. I am just surprised that they haven't already done so.
Myself, I don't try and avoid tax, as it is a necessary evil, the country wouldn't run without it. People should remember that we have a good standard of living and excellent infrastructure, compared to most countries, and this is due to the amount of tax we pay.
I only ever buy goods from overseas if there is a wide disparity in prices, compared to Oz, or it just isn't available here. Often, even with paying the tax, the price is usually considerably cheaper, so I still save anyway, so I don't see the point in trying to evade some tax, particularly, going to any effort to do so. And, if that little difference in tax makes a difference to whether I can buy the item or not, then I can't afford it anyway.
I do consider things like warranties, freight etc, as well, when purchasing goods from OS and I wouldn't bother with anything electronic, that I can get here, as that is a risky proposition, in my view.
If an Australia price is reasonably close, I buy it here, to support local business, to get local warranties and after sales service, which is something a lot of people do not consider. Only when there is a ridiculous difference in price, or I can't get it here, then I look to overseas.
Cheers Pete