Changes to the Australian Government TRS Scheme

 As of 17 April 2013 changes to the requirements for making a GST claim under the Australian Government’s Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) have come into effect.

 The key changes are:

 1.Travellers can claim through the tourist refund scheme on purchases made up to 60 days before leaving Australia (under old regulations they had 30 days). This will apply to sales made on or after 17 April 2013.

 2.Travellers can submit more than one tax invoice to make their claim, as long as each is a valid tax invoice from the one Australian Business Number retailer and the total value of goods purchased is $300 or more (including GST).

The TRS enables you to claim a refund (subject to certain conditions) of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) that you pay on products purchased in Australia.

The Essentials You Need to Know:

• The duty on cameras has been replaced by the GST (10%).
• The GST can be claimed back if the item is purchased within 60 days of travelling.
• You must show the Tax Invoice at customs before you depart overseas.
• You must take the goods through customs with you.
• Minimum $300 (incl GST) on the combined total of your tax invoices.
• You can open and use the goods within the 60 days prior to departure. 

 For full details you can download a copy of the TRS brochure here