Australia is a high-value market for Indian exporters — average order value is 30% higher than the US. But it's also one of the most regulated. Two acronyms you must know before shipping: ABN and GST.
1. What is an ABN and Do You Need One?
An ABN (Australian Business Number) is a unique 11-digit identifier issued by the Australian Tax Office. As an Indian seller, you need to be aware of two situations:
- Shipment to a business buyer — your buyer provides their ABN, which you must include on the commercial invoice. This unlocks GST-free imports if applicable.
- Shipments above AUD 75,000/year — if your annual sales to Australia exceed this threshold, you're required to register for Australian GST yourself.
ShipReward's order form prompts you for the ABN field whenever the destination is Australia, so it's captured correctly on every invoice.
2. The 10% GST on Low-Value Imports
Since 2018, Australia applies 10% GST on all imported goods, including those below AUD 1,000. The platform/seller is required to collect GST at checkout for low-value goods.
3. Required Documents
- Commercial Invoice with buyer's ABN (if applicable)
- Packing List
- HS Code (Australia uses 8-digit codes)
- Sender's IEC (Import Export Code) — for shipments above ₹50,000
4. Biosecurity Rules
Australia's Department of Agriculture has some of the strictest biosecurity rules globally. Items that are frequently held or destroyed:
- Wooden products (must be heat-treated, fumigated, or have ISPM-15 stamps)
- Food items containing meat, dairy, eggs, or fresh fruits/vegetables
- Herbal products (Ayurvedic items often need additional permits)
- Leather products (must be treated, certified)
- Seeds, plants, or anything with soil
5. Courier Options
- DHL Express Worldwide — 4-6 days
- FedEx International Priority — 5-7 days
- Aramex International — 6-10 days
- India Post EMS — 9-15 days
6. Average Rates (2 kg parcel, mid-2026)
Express: ₹2,400 - ₹4,200 | Economy: ₹1,800 - ₹2,700 | India Post EMS: ₹3,200. Get a live quote for your shipment.
Final Tip
Australian Customs operates a "risk-based" inspection system. Clean, well-documented shipments from registered exporters clear in 24 hours; poorly documented ones can sit for 5-7 days. Always include the ABN, use accurate HS codes, and never under-declare value.