Import prohibition on certain small air conditioning equipment

It's been a few weeks now since the change in the importation of small air conditioning equipment.

It is important to note that the import prohibition does not apply to equipment that is imported under the low volume exemption, the personal use exemption or the temporary import exemption.

It is even more imperative now that importers must find out what type of gas the equipment contains or is designed to operate on, and the quantity of gas in the equipment (if gassed). Reference to the substance used is likely to be found on the equipment, e.g. on a compliance plate or manufacturer label, on the packaging or in the product manual. If not, they may need to seek details of the substance(s) from the supplier or manufacturer.

Do not import equipment without finding out this information as it could be an expensive exercise.

Small air conditioning equipment is defined in the OPSGGM Regulations as any of the following:

-the outdoor unit of a single-head split system air conditioning system

-a portable air conditioning system

-an air conditioning system that consists of a single unit designed to be mounted on a wall or window.

Importers can apply for an equipment licence from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), for the import of the above equipment in certain circumstances, (similar circumstance exemptions apply under the HCFC and CFC prohibition) including if:

if the equipment is essential for medical, veterinary, defence, industrial or public safety, or scientific purposes, and no practical and effective alternative exists

the equipment is incidental to the main import, and it is impractical to remove or retrofit the equipment (for example, equipment incorporated into a drilling rig).

Australian Border Force is responsible for the control of these items at the point of import. Your customs broker and/or Australian Border Force officers may require that you supply documentary evidence to demonstrate that the equipment is for personal use, for example registration papers, purchase invoice, insurance papers or warranty documents.

Legislation:

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Regulations 1995 (OPSGGM Regulations)

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989

Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 Section 5K (1)(c) - unless a licence is issued.

Further information:

https://www.abf.gov.au/help-and-support-subsite/CustomsNotices/2024-24.pdf