Sorry to hear that you have had so many problems with the importation of lasers Merlin. I have imported lasers greater than 30mW and have had none of the issues that you have described and they were imported under the B709B form, which I have my copy in front of me. When I imported them I was informed that all that was required is the police permit. However, WA police have a dedicated officer who handle all weapon import permits and I was advised, by him, that the B709B form was all that was required.
I don't know about the VIC laws, but lasers in WA are not a banned weapon, but rather a controlled weapon, meaning you have to have a legitimate use under the Act; astronomical use is considered a legitimate use in WA (without having to belong to a club). This may have something to do with it, but I don't know, since I am unfamiliar with the VIC laws.
As for lasers over 1mW being banned; in WA the police have no laws against selling or owning a laser above 1mW (as long as you have a legitimate use), however, under the Health Regulations, lasers over 1mW require WA Health Department approval. This is interesting, since most lasers used for industrial use are above 1mw anyway, and can be purchased over the counter.
Merlin, when I first started down this road, I did have a few initial problems in getting the right information, however, I took the matter up with my local member of parliament and he sorted the actual requirements out for me and put me in touch with the relevant officer within the police department. I then had no problems after that.
So, if you continue to have issues with this, may I suggest getting onto your local representative for assistance, or the Commonwealth Ombudsman, after all, this is their job.
They should be able to sort it out. Half the problem is talking to the right person. Customs seem to interpret the laws differently, depending on who you deal with. I know, as I have just had a problem with another importation issue, just this week, with Customs, but that was sorted out in the end. Also, you can contact the Federal Minister for Home Affairs, as this is also their jurisdiction. One of the above should be able to sort the mess out.
Frankly, I have found my local representative to be very good. He even managed to get a street light shaded for me, despite council opposition, in addition to other assistance. They are your elected representatives, so use them. It is amazing how quick things get sorted out when a politician gets involved.
Cheers Peter