[pluck]

Warning. Buying from overseas is a nightmare.

The last 3 O/S purchases of mine have been a total and absolute nightmare. Australia post, when they are not losing my packages, appear to be losing everything else (my paper work, my address, common sense etc.). Australian Customs have invented a whole new money generating scheme for which every import attracts a hefty processing fee (not inclussive with GST), and a whole new regime of ridiculous paper work (yes, even for private purchases) which in my case now requires two trips to the airport to fill out paper work and then an additional trip to Australia Post to collect the time because it takes 24hours to staple a page.

If you absolutely have to purchase from overseas (ie, no reputable dealer for item in Aus) then get the vendor to ship via FedEx. You will save money (believe it or not) and a good deal of frustration. FedEx provide brokeridge for the import process, where Australia Post throw their hands up in the air and tell you to contact Customs.

Oh, and try not to purchase anything over $1000 AUD (this is apparently the limit for additional beaurocracy - although I'm not convinced).

Things like this have gotten a great deal worse in this country over the past couple of years. I now liken it to my similar experiences with the Italian public services mentality for which I am a vetran.

Apologies to Australia Post and Australia Customs employees - I don't hold you personally responsible, just your bosses and this frigging government.

Through venting.

P.