15 year rule is officially... OVER!

[funkymonkey]

UPDATE - 12/05/2005

The 15 year old law has ended.

The long wait is finally over with the amendment being made to the `Motor Vehicle Standards Act` yesterday - these changes take effect the day after they are written so as of this morning there will be no more 1989-90 model cars imported under these laws. A copy of the actual law amendment can be viewed at www.comlaw.gov.au

This change has been long coming with the announcment made in early February that this was the direction things were heading, however the very slow manner in which the Act was amended provided a small window of opportunity many have taken advantage of, which has now ended.

From this day onwards there are a few distinct ways to import cars as listed below:

- 1988 and older -

Any vehicle built before 1st January 1989 (ie 1988 and older) can be imported without restriction in the same way as the now old `15 year rules` - as before you still need to get import approval from DOTARS before shipping the car to Australia.

- SEVS compliance -

This now includes any cars built in 1989 or newer which meet the SEVS criteria - basically this means that the car must not have been sold in Australia during the same year range & must meet specific performance criteria in most cases.

You can view the full list of cars approved under the SEVS scheme at http://rvcs-prodweb.dot.gov.au/sevs/sevsindex.htm but please be aware that you can only import a vehicle if there is compliance available also.

- Motorsport vehicles -

Cars are still allowed to be import for `race only` use however the requirements are fairly strict as always. You need to have a level 3 or higher CAMS licence, the car needs to be FIA approved or endorsed by CAMS for the race class you intend using it for. Motorsport imports can't be registered for road use.

- Personal imports -

You are allowed to import any car as a personal import without restriction on make/model as long as you have owned and used it overseas for at least the past 12 months.

This law is for people moving to live in Australia and wishing to bring their vehicle as well - you will be asked to provide evidence of your time overseas and your intention to stay in Australia.

SEVS import laws in combination with the 1988 and earlier rule still allow a good selection of cars to be brought in and the variety of SEVS vehicles available is likely to increase over time.

Regards,

The J-Spec Imports Team

*******************

http://www.ministers.dotars.gov.au/jl/rele...ruary/index.htm

The guys at J-Spec are seeing what can be done for the current customers and those with us looking into importing under the 15 year rule. We are talking to the company lawyers etc to see where we stand with regards to this media release and FAQ. I'll keep this thread updated with what interpretational findings we come to and what action we'll be taking.

the FAQ file (short version bulletin) is here:

http://www.ministers.dotars.gov.au/jl/rele...11_2005_faq.pdf

As part of the email we recieved fromt he Dept... these excerpts might answer a few questions...

6)How long will the transitional arrangement last?

Import applications will need to be lodged with the Department on or before 31 December 2005. Applications may only cover vehicles manufactured on or before 31 December 1990.

8) Will the transitional arrangement still be based on the month of manufacture?

Yes. These features of the previous (15 year old) scheme will apply equally to the transitional arrangement. The vehicle must be 15 (or more) years old when making the application.

9) Will RAWs be able to plate vehicles more than 15 years old?

Yes. Vehicles manufactured on or after 1 January 1989, and entered on the Register of Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles, may be handled and certified by Registered Automotive Workshops (RAWs).

10) What will happen to pre existing older vehicle approvals?

Pre existing approvals will continue to apply. Once approved, the vehicle is cleared for entry into Australia.

BUT.... the vaguest of info was...

13) When will the Regulations be amended?

Amendments to the Motor Vehicle Standards Regulations 1989, implementing the change, are expected to be Gazetted before the end of March 2005.

14) Can I continue to import vehicles 15 or more years old until the Regulations are amended?

Yes. Until the Regulations are amended, the 15 year old scheme continues to apply. However, the vehicle must be 15 (or more) years old when making the application.

--- Update 8:00pm 08/02/05

Just finished sending out a mass generic email to all those on our mailing list advicing of the new rules

Here's some further documentation to those that want to read more...

Media Release from Minister's Office

http://www.j-spec.com.au/MediaRelease.pdf

FAQ released by the Office

http://www.j-spec.com.au/FAQ.pdf

--- Update 11:00am 09/02/05

just mailed this out:

****************

After discussion with DOTARS and consultation with our lawyers, we have determined some new and interesting developments with the recent termination of the 15 year old rule which was not initially clear in the media release and FAQ made available to the public.

According to the media release, vehicles purchased prior to Feb 7th 2005 can still be imported under the old 15 year old law. However, there is a brief period between the media release of Feb 7th and when the regulations are ammended during which 15 year old vehicles can still be purchased and import approval can be applied for. While no firm timeframe can be given for this period before the ammendment is made, we believe it will be approximately 3 weeks. During this time any 15 year old vehicle purchased MUST have import approval applied for before the ammendment, and the vehicle must be 15 years or older during this time, meaning only February 1990 vehicles and earlier can be purchased.

Since the exact date of the ammendment coming into effect is not known, to be safe any vehicles purchased must have import approval applied for on the same day as purchase and buyers must be able to pay for cars immediately. We expect that there will be an increase in the price of some cars (particularly those at auction) however the extent of this is difficult to tell. Whatever the case this is the absolute last opportunity to purchase some models (even if it is at a slightly higher price) and if interested people are encouraged to contact us immediately as time is short.

Regards,

The J-Spec Imports Team

So contact your preferred importer NOW if you wanna buy a soon to be affected 15 year old car (ie 1989 or early 1990). Basically until the Motor Vehicle Standards Act is amended/updated, there exists a window of opportunity to gain an Import Approval for cars from this period. So no whining about the government changing laws etc, no time for stuffing around either, just be committed and do it... or wait another 15 years.

[Blitz]

Well, thats it guys.

Only 1988 and older cars can be imported under the 15 year rule from now on. No more cheap GTR's

A Media Release today by the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, the HON. JIM LLOYD MP, spells the effective death of the 15 year rule as we know it.  This is reproduced below for your information.  In essence, from today 7th Feb 2005, only 1988 and older vehicles can be imported under the 15 year rule.  This will be gradually increased to 30 years over time.

 

All other vehicles for road use must be imported under SEVS.  Anyone who can prove a financial commitment to a 1989 or 1990 vehicle prior to today's announcement will be exempted from the changes and will still be entitled to an Import Approval once the vehicle is 15 years old.

 

The statement mentions "a level playing field", obviously to the Australian Govt. this involves sheltering our small and uneconomical local market from imports by grossly and unfairly restricting what is allowed in after conducting limited community / industry consultation.  Not sure what happened to free trade or a fair go in this case.  And this is after setting up SEVS as a means to control the import numbers of a restricted selection of vehicles, leading to less consumer choice and much higher prices.

 

If you have any comments about the changes please direct these to the contact points shown at the end of the statement.

 

---------------------------------

 

L11/05  

Monday February 7 2005                                                                                                      

 

MINISTER ANNOUNCES CLOSURE OF CAR IMPORT LOOPHOLE

 

A plan to tighten Australia’s vehicle importation laws that will reinforce motor vehicle safety and emission standards was announced today by the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd.

 

“The Government is closing a loophole that has enabled mainstream cars over 15 years of age to be imported in commercial quantities, and not subjected to safety and emission certification,” Mr Lloyd said.

 

“Importers of these cars were using an exemption that allows hobbyists and enthusiasts to import classic and historic cars. This exemption exists as these vehicles generally perform low mileages and are limited in numbers, and therefore represent a minimal risk to overall Australian vehicle and safety goals.

 

“Without such an exemption, the private importation of these types of older, collectible cars would become uneconomic.

 

“The closure of this loophole will only apply to those vehicles which do not fit in the classic and historic category, thus preserving the ability of hobbyists and enthusiasts to obtain older classic cars and historic vehicles.”

 

Mr Lloyd said a transitional arrangement would be provided for other vehicle importers who had current commitments to bring in vehicles under the old rule.  

 

“The changeover is being introduced gradually, to allow importers and consumers time to react to the revised focus of the exemption,” Mr Lloyd said.

 

Under the new rule:  

 

Vehicles manufactured before 1 January 1989 may be imported without restriction.  

Vehicles built during 1989 (or later) will need to qualify under the Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme (RAWS) and will need to be certified as complying with Australian Design Rules (applicable at the date of manufacture).  To qualify under RAWS, vehicle models must meet the specialist and enthusiast criteria.  

The buffer period (between collectible vehicles and mainstream vehicles) will be gradually extended over time – up to a maximum of 30 years.

 

A transitional arrangement will also be established.  Those importers who have already made a financial commitment before today on a vehicle manufactured in 1990 intended for future import, will be allowed to bring the vehicle into the country under the old rule up to the end of December 2005.

 

“This new rule will re‑instate a ‘level playing field’ within the industry.  Vehicles supplied to the same market will be subject to the same regulatory environment, substantially reducing cost pressures on mainstream businesses,” Mr Lloyd said.

 

Media inquiries:

Mr Lloyd’s office: Fiona Telford 02 6277 7060

Technical inquiries:

Department of Transport and Regional Services:  Justin Bryan 02 6274 7426

This signals the end of our ability to import some truely fantastic import performance bargains and leaves us with a very restricted choice of vehicles to buy if we want to avoid buying under the SEVS/RAWS system

[Silver-Arrowz]

I just got that too!

There goes my plan on bring in a NSX type R.

[NXTIME]

That's not as bad as some thought it would be. There goes any chance of importing a highly modded R32/300Zx.

[doridori32]

Will people who bought a 3000GT october make be allowed to bring it in Safely without hassles and extra fee's?

[fluent]

damn

on other news, my car (s13 ca18det) just landed at the docks, today lol.

[raz0r$harP.UK]

Will people who bought a 3000GT october make be allowed to bring it in Safely without hassles and extra fee's?

Dori if you've got the receipts to show it was purchased before today, I can't see why not. I ran into the same situation with my brother's car after they changed the rule from year to month and year. I submitted my Import Approval with a short letter explaining the circumstances to DOTARS, and it was approved with no questions.

FYI, stickied this thread as well for the time being.

[madmurf]

6)How long will the transitional arrangement last?

Import applications will need to be lodged with the Department on or before 31 December 2005. Applications may only cover vehicles manufactured on or before 31 December 1990.

Maybe we can still import up till the end of the year

80 series landcruiser might be OK?

[J_R32]

so is there a transitional period or have 1989, 1990 imports being stopped completely??

man i was cutting close then..*looks at my r32* ehhehe

[funkymonkey]

J-Spec is talking to the company lawyers etc to see where we stand with regards to this media release and FAQ. I'll keep this thread updated with what interpretational findings we come to and what action we'll be taking.

[doridori32]

so is there a transitional period or have 1989, 1990 imports being stopped completely??

man i was cutting close then..*looks at my r32* ehhehe

Well... having 3 October 3000GT's atm coming into australia hopefully october they leave japan aslong as i get APPROVAL.

Fingers Crossed or else i gotta put them up for sale in japan..

[NXTIME]

I think that the same exemptions apply in this instance as those back in September 2003 when the government changed it's 15 year rule implementation to by the month of manufacture. Ie: as long as you can prove that you bought the vehicle before today's rule change announcement, then you can get it approved and shipped.

[madmurf]

Guys

Reading the FAQ I still believe we have till the end of 2005 to get a 1990 car in.

Iam reading this incorrectly?

Quote

6)How long will the transitional arrangement last?

Import applications will need to be lodged with the Department on or before 31 December 2005. Applications may only cover vehicles manufactured on or before 31 December 1990.

Cheers

[lang]

Guys

Reading the FAQ I still believe we have till the end of 2005 to get a 1990 car in.

Iam reading this incorrectly?

Quote

6)How long will the transitional arrangement last?

Import applications will need to be lodged with the Department on or before 31 December 2005. Applications may only cover vehicles manufactured on or before 31 December 1990.

Cheers

providing you have paid for it prior to tommorow

"Those importers who havwe already made a financial commitment before today on a vehicle manufactured in 1990 intended for future import, will be allowed to bring the vehicle into the country under the old rule up to the end of december 2005"

[Blitz]

If you have proof of financial commitment to a car as at todays date and the car is newer than January 89, then you will still be able to obtain import approval.

Aside from this, effective today you can only import a pre January 89 vehicle, significantly reducing choice and scratching a number of the highly desirable models from the list.

Seems pretty cut and dry - today is the day

[RBN1]

just got this from J-Spec. Hope the guys don't mind me posting this for everyones info on here

____

After many months of speculation, the Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads, Jim Lloyd has finally announced via media release the discontinuation of the 15 year old rule in it's current guise as of today, February 7th, 2005.

As of this date only vehicles manufactured before January 1st, 1989 will be eligible for import without restriction, vehicles newer will be subject to SEVS eligibility and will need to be complied by a Registered Automotive Workshop. Exemption has been given to anyone who has made a financial commitment prior to today... this means anyone who has purchased a vehicle already but has not yet brought it into the country can still import it under the now old 15 year old guidelines. The evidence necessary will be prove that you have purchased a car before today will most likely be a copy of the transfer of funds for a specific vehicle.

The reasons for this change, according to the media release, is that the importation of 15 year old vehicles is not in line with current government policy regarding the continuous improvement of safety and emissions of vehicles in the Australian fleet, and that the scheme which was intended as a means of enthusiasts to import older, unusual vehicles is currently being used as a 'loophole' to import cars which don't meet this criteria.

The media release also makes mention of the the rule being extended to a 30 year old rule after this current 'buffer period' expires, however the specific workings of this and its implementation are not discussed.

There are some 15 year old vehicles currently still in Japan for which J-Spec Imports' agents have Australian import approval for, and as such can still be imported even after today. We will indicate which of these vehicles on our mailing list can still be purchased and imported shortly.

J-Spec Imports will NOT increase prices on any vehicles we have control over to capitalize on any panic which may ensue as a result of this change, we do however expect vehicles to sell quickly as they are the last and only chance to import certain models manufactured after Jan 1st, 1989.

For anyone who wishes to read the full media release it can be found here:

http://www.j-spec.com.au/MediaRelease.pdf

And an FAQ on the changes to these laws:

http://www.j-spec.com.au/FAQ.pdf

Regards,

The J-Spec Imports Team

[rsx84]

so as of tomorrow anyone who has'nt bought yet, wanted to import a 89' gtr or gtst well 89' anything, they are now having to wait longer or pay sevs ($3500) to bring the car into the country?

[danozgriff]

so as of tomorrow anyone who has'nt bought yet, wanted to import a 89' gtr or gtst well 89' anything, they are now having to wait longer or pay sevs ($3500) to bring the car into the country?

Yes? So is it as of February 8 or 7 that if payment/obligation hasnt been made by this date then you can't import under 15yr rule?

I bought a car just last week, the invoice says 29th January. However I only sent the payment through just today!

[Amaru]

If you have proof you bought the car before today basically, you can still bring the car in.

If you havnt bought one yet, tough luck it needs to now come in under SEVS and get full compliancing.

[druzilla32]

ide expect the price of gtrs already in Australia to Skyrocket!