Aircon Gas Import Laws Relaxed

Importers of low numbers of used vehicles into Australia will now be able to import approx. 35 vehicles per year (up to 25kg of gas) without degassing or obtaining a license, thanks to recent amendments to the Degassing Laws.

The rule was originally limited to no more than 5 units (in a single consignment) in a 2 year period per importer.

This rule has been updated for certain aircon gas types: The low volume import conditions for equipment containing HFCs (R134a), PFCs, sulfur hexafluoride have changed and nitrogen trifluoride will be added to the controls from 1 January 2018.

Importers who import up to 25 kilograms of these gases in equipment during a calendar year will not need an equipment licence.

There is no limit on the number of pieces of equipment and the equipment may be imported in one or more consignment.

However the rule still stands at 5 units per consignment for any vehicle containing HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbon).

More information on changes to licencing can be found at : http://www.environment.gov.au/protection/ozone/licences-and-reporting/forms