Japan auction access, with Australian support

Most vehicles that are at least 25 years old from the month of build or manufacture can be imported into Australia through the RAW (Registered Automotive Workshop) scheme. This is a rolling 25-year pathway, so the eligible year moves forward over time. As a current example, vehicles from 2001 or earlier may fall within the pathway depending on build or manufacture timing and the rules that apply at the time of import.

Not every 25-year-old vehicle is automatically importable. Condition, modifications, compliance, asbestos rules and other import requirements still apply.

Newer vehicles can sometimes be imported through the SEVS (Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme) if the make and model is listed. We can check this for you.

If you are unsure, ask us before bidding.

Japan auctions often show one low-resolution or blurred photo with the listing. That is normal.

If you want extra photos and the auction sheet, send an enquiry and we can usually source them from the auction house.

Auction grades explained

Prestige Car Imports has a minimum standard of 3.5 grading for the vehicles we purchase, unless you are willing to buy a lower grade.

The overall grade is a guide to condition, not a guarantee.

Exterior condition

• 5 – looks brand new, with no blemishes
• 4.5 – excellent condition, only very minor marks
• 4 – better than average wear, clean overall with a few minor marks
• 3.5 – normal wear for age and kilometres. May need some cosmetic work
• 3 – poor overall condition. Expect paint fade, odour, scratching, rust or more serious issues
• R – repaired vehicles. Common on older sports cars. Repairs can be minor or significant. These are cheaper and can still be worth considering if the damage is not serious
• RA – repaired, still in good cosmetic condition
• RA2/3 – repaired and in poor condition. Treat these with extra care

Interior condition

• A – as new, no wear
• B – very clean, better than average wear
• C – typical wear for age and kilometres. Marks or seat wear may be present. Bigger issues are usually noted separately on the sheet
• D – rough, or stripped for racing
• E – extremely poor. Dash cracks, odour, sticky or melting plastics

A one-time deposit of $1,190 AUD is required before we inspect and bid.

The remaining service fee is payable once a vehicle is secured. The total fee depends on the vehicle. We confirm it before we bid.

Once you pay the $1,190 AUD deposit, it stays on your account until we purchase a vehicle for you.

If a bid is unsuccessful, the deposit remains available so we can inspect and bid on other vehicles.

Yes. After you enquire and the $1,190 AUD deposit is paid, we have the vehicle inspected in Japan and send you the report before we place any bids.

We offer marine transit insurance through Cover Freight. We strongly recommend taking it.

If you do not take it, cover is limited. The shipping company’s insurance typically only applies if the vessel sinks. There is usually no cover while the vehicle is moved in Japan, at the port, during loading or unloading, or while it is sent to compliance in Australia.

It depends on the vehicle, auction price, kilometres, grade, condition, transmission and modifications. We can give you an estimate based on current market conditions, but the sale price is not known until the auction ends.

Use the Japan Import Calculator for a landed-cost estimate.

The example costs below are from an RX7 we imported:

Vehicles built before 2000 require asbestos testing. That test is done at Osaka port. The test is $350 AUD. If asbestos is found, removal is $75 AUD plus the cost of any replacement part. There may also be transport costs from the auction house to Osaka.

Luxury Car Tax may apply to higher-value imports. The threshold is set by the ATO and changes from time to time. Check the current figure on the ATO Luxury Car Tax page, or use the calculator for an estimate.

Roadworthy, registration and stamp duty are not included. Those costs vary by state and are separate from compliance.

You cannot bid live. We bid on your behalf.

Once you enquire, we give you an estimated landed and complied price. If you are happy with that, and the $1,190 AUD deposit is paid, we inspect the vehicle, send you the report, and if you are happy we bid up to your maximum budget.

If we do not win, there is no extra fee. The deposit stays on your account.

Japan auctions generally run from Tuesday to Saturday. There are usually no auctions on Sundays or Mondays.

Calendars can change around public holidays. We will confirm the sale day for a specific vehicle when you enquire.

No. You pay as invoices become due. Third-party costs are charged at cost.

1. Pay our deposit of $1,190 AUD
2. Pay the Japan auction house or dealer, plus any remaining balance of our fee if required
3. Pay shipping, customs and GST just before arrival
4. Pay compliance
5. Pay roadworthy, registration and stamp duty in your state. These are separate from compliance

Yes, we can help point you toward finance. A vehicle still overseas cannot be used as security, so personal or business loans are usually the only option. You will be making repayments while the car is in transit.

If you want finance, get in touch well before the vehicle is due at auction. We can help you seek pre-approval before the search starts. Approval is always up to the lender.

We can only import vehicles with minimal modifications. Highly modified vehicles will not pass compliance in Australia.

Minimal usually means:

• Wheels
• Coilovers
• Front-mount intercooler
• Exhaust

Heavily modified vehicles can sometimes be imported under race or rally rules for track use only. You can import under that pathway and later return the vehicle to stock if you want it complied for the road.

Tell us about any modifications before bidding.

A typical import takes about 12 to 16 weeks from purchase at auction to driving in Australia.

Shipping, customs, compliance and then roadworthy (or equivalent) in your state can move that either way.

Below are the ports we have access to. Prices in the image are an example only. Ask us for a current shipping quote.

We use Top Secret Compliance and their subsidiaries for compliance in all states except Victoria. In Victoria the vehicle comes to Prestige Car Imports and we handle the process.

We can help comply vehicles in any state. If you have a preferred compliance shop, we can send the vehicle there.

Compliance and roadworthy are separate. After compliance, the vehicle still needs to meet roadworthy (or equivalent) requirements in your state before it can be registered.

If you have questions about registration or compliance, email [email protected] or use the contact page.

We avoid purchases from northern Japan where possible, and we rely on a trained inspection team to physically check vehicles for rust and related issues before bidding.

Japanese vehicles generally go through an annual inspection, which records odometer readings over time. That gives more history than is often available when buying a car already in Australia.

No reading should be taken as guaranteed. We check the auction sheet, inspect the vehicle, and look for signs of odometer tampering. We do not buy vehicles that show signs of tampering.

Luxury Car Tax (LCT) can apply to higher-value imported vehicles.

The threshold is set by the Australian Taxation Office and changes from time to time. Check the current figure on the ATO Luxury Car Tax page, or use the Japan Import Calculator for an estimate.

Where LCT applies, it is 33% of the amount above the threshold, using the ATO calculation method.

There are no refunds on memberships. Monthly membership is $15 AUD per month. Yearly membership is $150 AUD per year. If you cancel, you keep access until the end of the billed period.

The $1,190 AUD deposit is generally non-refundable, except where required by the Australian Consumer Law. Once a vehicle has been bought at auction, the deposit is applied to our fee.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By engaging the services of PRESTIGE FINANCIAL PTY LTD T/A PRESTIGE CAR IMPORTS (“Broker”, “we”, “us”, “our”), you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. Nothing in this Agreement excludes, restricts, or modifies any rights or remedies you may have under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) or other applicable legislation.

1. Scope of Services

The vehicle you are purchasing or seeking to import is located overseas. The Broker does not sell vehicles. The Broker acts solely as an import broker and facilitator, assisting with introductions, coordination, administration, and logistics between Australian buyers and overseas vehicle owners or suppliers such as auction houses, private sellers, dealerships etc.

The Broker:

• does not own, possess, or hold title to any vehicle;
• does not carry vehicle stock;
• does not buy, sell, trade, or resell motor vehicles;
• does not personally inspect vehicles unless expressly agreed in writing; and
• does not provide mechanical, engineering, or compliance certifications.

Any descriptions, photographs, reports, or representations regarding a vehicle are provided by third parties such as overseas sellers, auction houses, inspectors, or logistics providers.

You acknowledge that you are purchasing a used motor vehicle from an overseas source, and that such transactions involve inherent risks.

While the Broker may arrange independent third-party inspections at your request, the Broker does not warrant or guarantee the condition, quality, roadworthiness, or compliance status of any vehicle.

Marketing, Advertising & Listings Disclaimer

The Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that any vehicles displayed, advertised, promoted, or referenced by the Broker on its website, social media accounts (including but not limited to Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or similar platforms), email communications, messaging platforms, or other marketing materials are advertised solely for promotional and marketing purposes.

Such advertisements or listings:

• do not constitute an offer for sale by the Broker;
• do not indicate ownership, possession, or control of the vehicle by the Broker;
• are not representations that the Broker is the seller or vendor of the vehicle; and
• are intended only to introduce or market vehicles made available by third-party overseas owners or suppliers.

Any vehicle advertised by the Broker remains the property of the overseas owner or supplier unless and until lawfully transferred to a purchaser. The Broker does not acquire title, beneficial ownership, or risk in any advertised vehicle at any time.

All vehicle descriptions, specifications, images, videos, pricing indications, condition statements, availability, and other information displayed in advertisements or communications are supplied by third parties or derived from external sources and are provided for general information only. The Broker does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of such information.

The Purchaser acknowledges that marketing content, listings, captions, messages, or responses provided by the Broker (including via social media or messaging platforms) do not constitute representations, warranties, or advice as to the condition, quality, compliance, suitability, or availability of any vehicle.

Any decision to purchase a vehicle is made solely by the Purchaser in reliance on their own enquiries, inspections, and independent advice, and not on advertising or promotional material published by the Broker.

Any advertisement, post, listing, message, or communication made by the Broker does not constitute an offer capable of acceptance and is provided for general marketing and informational purposes only.

Social Media, Messaging & Informal Communications

The Purchaser acknowledges that communications via social media platforms, messaging applications, text messages, or informal correspondence (including Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, SMS, or similar platforms) are provided for convenience only and do not constitute contractual representations, warranties, or professional advice.

Any information shared through such channels is indicative only and subject to confirmation in writing under this Agreement. The Broker is not bound by statements made in informal communications unless expressly confirmed in writing as part of this Agreement.

2. Nature of the Transaction & Role of Parties

The Purchaser acknowledges and agrees that:

• The vehicle is purchased on an “as is, where is” basis from an overseas vehicle owner or supplier.
• The overseas vehicle owner is not an employee, partner, or agent of the Broker.
• The Broker is not the seller, owner, or vendor of the vehicle.
• Any contract for the sale of the vehicle is formed directly between the Purchaser and the overseas vehicle owner or supplier.

The overseas vehicle owner’s role is limited to assisting with the sale or release of the vehicle to the Purchaser and does not include providing warranties or guarantees except where required by law.

3. No Partnership, No Agency, No Authority

Nothing in this Agreement creates or is intended to create:

• a partnership,
• a joint venture,
• a fiduciary relationship, or
• an agency relationship

between the Broker and the Purchaser or between the Broker and any overseas seller.

The Broker has no authority to bind, represent, or make warranties on behalf of any overseas seller, auction house, shipping provider, or third party.

Likewise, the Purchaser has no authority to bind the Broker in any manner.

4. Pricing & Estimates

All prices and cost estimates provided are indicative only and based on information available at the time.

We do not quote landed and complied pricing, we only offer an estimate, these estimates do not include:

• registration costs
• roadworthy/blueslip/pits inspections costs
• stamp duty/transfer duty charges to register into your name
• specific state-based charges

Final costs may vary due to exchange rate movements, shipping costs, taxes, port charges, or unforeseen circumstances.

5. Fees & Payment Terms

Service Fees

• A $1,190 AUD deposit is required to engage the Broker’s services.
• The remaining balance of the Broker’s service fee becomes payable once a vehicle is secured and payment to the overseas seller is required.
• Service fees are calculated based on estimated landed and complied value and country of origin.
• Deposits are generally non-refundable except where required by the ACL.

If a bid or purchase request is withdrawn after submission, the Broker will attempt cancellation; however, if the purchase proceeds, the Purchaser remains liable for the full cost.

If a successfully purchased vehicle is re-entered into auction at the Purchaser’s request:

• a $2,000 AUD cancellation fee applies; and
• all associated third-party costs (auction, storage, transport, etc.) remain payable.
  Any resale proceeds may be retained to offset such costs.

6. Handling of Funds / Administrative Holding

Where funds are transferred to the Broker in connection with a vehicle transaction:

• such funds are received solely for administrative convenience and transaction facilitation;
• they do not constitute consideration for the sale of a vehicle;
• they do not create or evidence any sale contract between the Broker and Purchaser;
• they do not transfer ownership, title, or risk in the vehicle to the Broker.

The Purchaser authorises the Broker to hold, transfer, or remit funds to overseas sellers, agents, shipping providers, or other third parties in accordance with transaction requirements or Purchaser instructions.

Funds may be transferred once contractual or procedural milestones are met, including confirmation of purchase, export approval, or shipping arrangements.

The Broker does not hold funds as owner, seller, or principal.

7. Additional Costs

You are responsible for additional costs arising from:

• auction locations outside initial estimates
• non-drivable vehicles or special handling requirements
• customised or specialised transport
• shipping delays or vessel unavailability
• storage charges beyond the Broker’s control

Proforma invoices must be paid within 7 business days.

If payment is delayed more than 2 banking days, currency exchange differences may apply.

Late payments incur an administration fee of $20 AUD per day.

If payment remains outstanding for 30 days, the Broker may suspend services or terminate its involvement in the transaction. Any losses or third-party charges arising remain payable by the Purchaser, subject to the ACL.

8. Import Regulations & Compliance

You are responsible for confirming that the vehicle is eligible for import and compliance in Australia.

The Broker may provide general guidance but does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of advice provided verbally, in writing, or online.

9. Limitation of Liability

The Purchaser acknowledges that the Broker acts solely as an import facilitator.

At no time does the Broker:

• hold ownership or title to the vehicle;
• provide warranties or guarantees of condition, quality, or fitness for purpose;
• assume responsibility for representations made by sellers, auction houses, inspectors, or transport providers.

The Purchaser further acknowledges that:

• the Vehicle Import Approval and customs documentation are issued in the Purchaser’s name;
• the Purchaser is the importer of record under Australian law;
• the Purchaser may be deemed the manufacturer for ACL purposes; and
• the Broker does not assume manufacturer obligations or consumer guarantees in respect of the vehicle.
• Except as required by law, the Broker’s liability is limited to either:
• re-supplying the broker services; or
• paying the cost of having those services supplied again.

10. Excluded Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Broker is not liable for:

• errors or omissions of third parties
• shipping delays or cancellations
• customs, duties, or taxes
• mechanical, electrical, or cosmetic defects
• missing parts or consumables
• exchange rate movements
• force majeure events (including natural disasters, strikes, war, or severe weather)

Vehicles are not insured against natural disasters or weather-related damage unless separately arranged. Such risks are assumed by the Purchaser.

11. Indemnity

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the Purchaser indemnifies and holds harmless the Broker and its directors, officers, employees, contractors, and agents from and against all claims, losses, damages, liabilities, penalties, and expenses (including legal costs on a full indemnity basis) arising from or relating to:

1. a) any defect or condition of the vehicle;
   b) failure to meet ADR, import, registration, or compliance requirements;
   c) acts or omissions of overseas sellers, auction houses, inspectors, or logistics providers;
   d) third-party claims relating to ownership, title, condition, importation, or use of the vehicle;
   e) regulatory or enforcement action arising because the Purchaser is the importer or deemed manufacturer;
   f) reliance on information or assistance provided by the Broker;
   g) failure to obtain insurance, inspections, or independent professional advice.

This indemnity survives termination or completion of this Agreement.

12. Consumer Guarantees & Dispute Resolution

Nothing in this Agreement excludes or limits rights under the Australian Consumer Law that cannot lawfully be excluded.

If a dispute arises, the parties agree to attempt resolution in good faith before commencing legal proceedings.

Any legal proceedings must be brought in the courts of Victoria, Australia, and governed by Victorian law.

13. Updates to Terms

These Terms and Conditions may be updated from time to time. Any material changes will be communicated prior to taking effect.

PRIVACY POLICY
Effective Date: 01/03/2023

Prestige Car Imports is committed to protecting the privacy of individuals in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).

This Privacy Policy outlines how Prestige Car Imports manages personal information collected via its website.

1. Collection of Personal Information

Prestige Car Imports does not collect personal information from visitors simply browsing our website. However, personal information may be collected if a visitor voluntarily submits information via our Contact Us form or communicates with us via email or phone.

Examples of personal information that may be collected include:

• Name

• Email address

• Phone number

• Any other information provided voluntarily

2. Use of Personal Information

Any personal information voluntarily provided to us is used solely for the purpose of responding to your inquiries or providing requested services. We do not use your information for direct marketing unless you have given explicit consent.

3. Disclosure of Personal Information

We do not disclose your personal information to third parties, except:

• When required by law

• Where you have given consent

• To service providers that assist us in operating our website or business (and are bound by confidentiality agreements)

4. Cookies and Website Analytics

Our website does not use cookies for tracking or analytics purposes at this time. However, we may use standard server logs to monitor website traffic and performance. No personal information is identified in this process.

5. External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. These websites are not controlled by Prestige Car Imports, and we are not responsible for their privacy practices. We recommend reviewing the privacy policies of any external sites you visit.

6. Data Security

Prestige Car Imports takes reasonable steps to protect any personal information you provide from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.

7. Access and Correction

If you believe that any personal information we hold about you is inaccurate or out of date, you may request access or correction by contacting us directly. We will respond to all requests in accordance with our obligations under the Privacy Act.

8. Privacy Policy Updates

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in legislation or our business practices. The latest version will always be available on our website.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or complaints about this Privacy Policy or how your personal information is handled, please contact:

Prestige Car Imports
4/43 Launceston Street
Williamstown North, VIC 3016
Phone: +61 456 782 466
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.prestigecarimports.com