they assume wrong.im in the process of doing a 26/30, series 2 vl block.
so, more or less same manufacture dates as my 89 model 32 rb26.
as already mentioned, tell them its from a later model car.
my understanding in NSW is the emissions gear has to be that of the newer componant, car or engine.
newer engine, has to meet the emissions of the engine year of manufacture.
newer car, has to meet the requirements of the cars manufacture date.
may be different in QLD, but would be good to know.