tourist refund scheme sydney airport location

My TRS Claim

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1. Disclaimer
2. My Travel Details
3. My Invoices
4. My Payment Details
5. My Claim Code

Step 2 of 5 -

Important note to all claimants.

This web page will assist you to enter information required to lodge a Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) claim.

When you have finished entering your information it will be stored in a QR code. This QR code is your TRS Claim Code, and it must be presented at the TRS location at the airport on the day you depart from Australia.

Creating a TRS Claim 'QR' Code may allow your claim to be processed faster at TRS as your claim information is pre-filled.

Your Privacy

The Department of Home Affairs collects and deals with personal information in accordance with its Privacy Policy.

Your use of this TRS Application is regulated by its Terms and Conditions, including the application's Privacy Statement.

By checking this box, I understand and accept the TRS Application's Terms and Conditions, including the Privacy Statement.

Tax Invoice Requirements

A valid tax invoice includes:

the retailer's name, address and Australian Business Number (ABN)
a description of the goods that allows us to match the goods to the invoice
the purchase price of the goods, including the GST or WET paid (or total price including GST)
the date of purchase
the invoice must be in English.

Tax invoices for $1,000 or more must also show your name (and only your name) as it appears in your passport.

Tax Invoice s :

Invoice Date: Invoices must be dated within 60 days of your Departure Date Invoices cannot be dated in the future Invoice/Receipt Number:

Total for : $

Estimated Refund for ABN: $

The invoices for ABN are not eligible for a refund because they total less than $300.

Total Of All Invoices: $ Estimated Total GST/WET Refund Being Claimed: $

Each abn on the claim must have invoices totalling a minimum of $300. the highlighted abns do not qualify., up to 10 invoices may be added..

* How do you want your refund to be paid, if approved?

Credit Card

The following credit cards are accepted:

Please note Union Pay debit cards are not accepted.

This application does not collect credit card details. Present your credit card when submitting your claim on departure.

Australian Bank Account

Cheque (not recommended)

Cheques may take 2 months to arrive, from date of departure.

Travel Details:

Passport Issuing Country:

Passport Number:

Australian Resident:

Departure Date:

Invoice Date: Invoice/Receipt Number:

Total All Invoices: $

Estimated gst/wet refund in australian dollars being claimed against all invoices (if approved): $, payment details:.

Payment Method:

Present your credit card when submitting your claim on departure.

Account Name:

BSB Number:

Account Number:

Cheque Currency:

Declaration:

I claim the Goods and Services Tax (and Wine Equalisation Tax if applicable) under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for the goods described in this TRS claim application.

I confirm that:

These goods were acquired by me within 60 days of my departure date, and paid in full for the amounts indicated in this TRS claim on the associated invoices;
The goods in this TRS claim will be in my possession and exported by me on the specified date of departure from Australia.

I understand that if I return to Australia with the goods, I may be required to pay applicable duties including GST and WET.

You have finished supplying the information needed to process your TRS claim and it is now saved in the following claim code. Please print or save this claim code.

You may save the claim code by right-clicking it and selecting your browsers Save Image/Picture... option.

To submit your TRS claim, you must present this claim code and any additional claim codes you have created at the TRS location at your port of departure from Australia.

Ensure you have the following items ready to be inspected:

The goods you are claiming a refund against;
Your Tax Invoice(s);
Your passport; and
Your boarding pass.

If you cannot present your claim code, your claim will be processed manually.

If when requested by an ABF officer you cannot present some or any of the goods listed above, some or all of your claim may be rejected.

Please note: this claim contains invoices that do not meet eligibility requirements.

To submit your Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) claim, you must present this claim code at the TRS facility at your port of departure.

If, when requested, you cannot present some or any of the items listed above prior to departing the country, some or all of your claim may be rejected.

Tax Invoice Summary

Tax Invoice s . Total:

Estimated Refund (subject to approval)

Terms and Conditions

Privacy statement.

The Department of Home Affairs (Home Affairs) is collecting and using your personal information for the purpose of assessing and refunding the Goods and Services (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) in accordance with section 168 of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (Cth). Home Affairs may disclose this information to the Australian Taxation Office and any retailers from whom you have attached invoices for the purposes of assessing and determining your eligibility for a GST/WET refund. If a tax refund is due to be paid to you, your personal information will be disclosed to a contracted commercial agency to facilitate the processing of that refund.

Failure to complete this application or provide this information may result in Home Affairs being unable to process your tax refund using this application.

Personal information will be collected, used, stored and disclosed by Home Affairs in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles in Schedule 1 of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

Further information regarding how Home Affairs handles personal information can be found in Home Affairs' privacy policy .

Warning: The TRS claim code generated by this app is not encrypted and can be read by any device capable of reading a QR code. You bear sole responsibility for the security of the code and its data.

Conditions on the use of this application, the eligibility rules for making a TRS claim, and the process for making a claim are detailed on the TRS information page .

Legal Statement

Making a false or misleading statement to an officer, including by presenting false documents, may result in the application of penalties.

Any goods subject to this TRS claim must be declared if they are brought back into Australia. You may be required to repay the GST/WET refunded under the TRS plus any additional customs duties and taxes payable on the ENTIRE VALUE of ALL the general goods you are importing.

Failure to declare imported goods may also result in the application of penalties (see the TRS Information page).

Invoice Details

What can i claim.

You can claim on most goods provided you can present a valid tax invoice.

You cannot claim against:

GST-free goods
Services, such as car hire and accommodation
Beer, spirits, tobacco and tobacco products
Goods consumed in Australia
Dangerous goods (goods you can't take out with you on the aircraft)
Goods which are not accompanying you on departure including goods you have freighted or posted out of Australia.

For more information refer to the TRS Information page .

Invoice Items:

* Please describe OTHER goods below. Your claim will be rejected if these goods do not meet the TRS requirements.

Amount Paid for Claimable Goods, including GST/WET

Sydney Airport Tax Refund: A Complete Guide For Travelers

“Ever imagined shopping in Australia and getting a portion of your money back as you leave?” That’s precisely what the Sydney Airport Tax Refund offers. This facility allows tourists and residents alike to claim a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalization Tax (WET) paid on specific goods purchased in Australia. As you prepare for your journey home, understanding this refund process can add a pleasant note to the end of your Australian adventure. From eligibility criteria to the claim process, this guide will navigate you through everything you need to know about securing your tax refund at Sydney Airport.

Table of Contents

Eligibility for Tax Refunds

Who is eligible for a tax refund.

Eligibility for a Sydney Airport tax refund is straightforward but specific. Travelers, both Australian residents and non-residents, are entitled to claim a refund. The key requirement is that they must be departing Australia. This opportunity is not limited to tourists alone; Australians heading overseas can also benefit. However, those employed in Australia or who have spent an extended period in the country may face additional scrutiny. It’s essential for claimants to understand these criteria to ensure a smooth refund process. Knowing whether you qualify beforehand can save time and prevent potential frustration at the airport.

Understanding Tax-Free Thresholds

When it comes to claiming tax refunds, not every purchase qualifies. The total value of goods for which you seek a refund must exceed 300 AUD, including GST. Furthermore, these purchases must have been made within 60 days before your departure from Australia. This threshold ensures that the scheme benefits genuine travelers, rather than being used for routine purchases. It’s vital to aggregate receipts to meet this minimum value. Travelers should also be aware that this limit applies to the total of all eligible goods, not per item. Keeping track of these spending thresholds is crucial for anyone looking to claim a tax refund.

Sydney Airport Tax Refund: Types of Goods Eligible

When considering a tax refund at Sydney Airport, it’s important to know which types of goods qualify. Generally, the goods you purchase in Australia and intend to take out of the country are eligible for a refund under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) . This encompasses a wide range of items, from clothing and electronics to Australian souvenirs. The key is that you must leave the country with these items unused and either carried with you or in your checked baggage. Understanding these criteria helps ensure you can make the most of the tax refund opportunity.

General Goods

Most products bought for personal use fall under the category of general goods. This includes items like fashion accessories, electronics, and other tangible merchandise. These goods must be new and unused to qualify for a refund. It’s important to keep in mind the 300 AUD minimum spend threshold, which includes the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Wine Equalization Tax (WET) paid. Keeping track of your purchases and receipts is essential for a smooth refund process.

Specific Goods and Exclusions

Certain goods, despite being tangible, do not qualify for a tax refund. These typically include consumable items, such as food and beverages, that are used or partially used in Australia. Additionally, services or digital products are not eligible. Understanding these exclusions helps prevent any surprises when applying for a tax refund.

Special Cases and Exceptions

While most tangible goods are eligible for a tax refund, there are exceptions to consider. For instance, items that are prohibited or restricted, like certain wildlife products or cultural artifacts, might not be eligible. Also, goods exceeding a certain value may require additional documentation or checks. Being aware of these special cases ensures that you can claim your tax refund without any complications.

How to Claim Your Sydney Airport Tax Refund

Claiming a Sydney Airport tax refund can be a seamless process if you follow the right steps. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, understanding this procedure can lead to significant savings on your purchases in Australia. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to help you navigate the tax refund process efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming a Tax Refund

The process of claiming a Sydney Airport tax refund involves a few essential steps. Start by ensuring that your purchases meet the eligibility criteria. Gather all necessary documentation before your departure date. At the airport, locate the tax refund counter, usually found in the international terminal. Here, present your documents and goods for verification. The staff will process your claim and initiate the refund, which you can receive in various forms, such as cash, credit to your card, or a transfer to your bank account.

Necessary Documentation

To claim your tax refund smoothly , proper documentation is crucial. You must present your passport, boarding pass, and original tax invoices for the goods you’re claiming a refund on. The invoices should clearly state the purchase price, GST amount, and the store’s details. Ensure you made these purchases within 60 days of your departure from Australia and that the total value exceeds 300 AUD (including GST). Having these documents organized and readily available will expedite the process at the refund counter.

Where to Go at Sydney Airport

Once at Sydney Airport, head to the tax refund counter, located in the international terminal. These counters are usually situated near the check-in area or after immigration, depending on the airport’s layout. Keep an eye out for signs indicating ‘Tax Refund’ or ‘TRS’ ( Tourist Refund Scheme ). If in doubt, airport staff can guide you to the correct location. Arriving at the airport with ample time before your flight is advisable, as queues can be long, especially during peak travel periods.

Tips for a Smooth Tax Refund Process

Navigating the tax refund process, especially at busy international hubs like Sydney Airport, can be challenging. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed. This section offers practical advice to help travelers efficiently navigate the tax refund procedure. By following these guidelines, you can maximize your chances of a successful and stress-free refund claim.

Best Practices for Tax Refund Claims

Consolidate Receipts: Keep all purchase receipts organized and in one place. Make sure they itemize the goods you’re claiming a refund for.
Original Documentation: Always carry original receipts and tax invoices. The refund process typically does not accept copies.
Intact Purchases: Keep your purchased items in their original, unopened packaging. Opened or used items may be questioned for their eligibility.
Honesty in Claims: Be truthful when claiming your refunds. Inaccurate claims can lead to complications and potential penalties.
Check Eligibility: Before attempting a claim, ensure your goods are eligible for a tax refund. Familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations.
Prepare Documentation: Have your passport, boarding pass, and tax invoices easily accessible. This preparation speeds up the process at the refund counter.
Know the Process: Understand the steps involved in claiming a tax refund at your specific airport to avoid any confusion or delays. Stay Informed: Keep updated on any changes in tax refund policies or procedures, as these can vary and may impact your eligibility or the process.

Navigating the tax refund process at Sydney Airport can be an easy and rewarding part of your travel experience. With proper preparation and understanding of the rules, you can efficiently claim your refund without disrupting your travel plans. Remember, this service not only offers a financial benefit but also a more enriching travel experience. Have you considered how much you might save on your next trip through the Sydney Airport tax refund system?

1. What is the minimum amount required to claim a tax refund at Sydney Airport? You need to have spent at least 300 AUD (GST inclusive) on goods within 60 days before leaving Australia.

2. Can I claim a tax refund for services or digital products purchased? No, the tax refund at Sydney Airport applies only to tangible goods that are carried with you as you leave the country.

3. Do I need to carry the items with me when claiming the refund? Yes, the items must be with you or in your checked baggage at the time of claiming the refund.

4. How does Sydney Airport process the tax refund? You can receive the refund either directly to your credit card, as a cheque, or into your Australian bank account .

5. Can I claim a tax refund for goods that I will be using or consuming in Australia? No, consuming or using goods in Australia makes them ineligible for a tax refund. The refund is intended for goods taken out of the country.

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Australasia , Australia · July 20, 2022

Sydney Airport Tax Refund: How to Use the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) in Australia

Looking for information on how to get the Sydney Airport tax refund? Here’s all you need to know about the Tourist Refund Scheme at Sydney Airport and other airports in Australia.

Did you know that tourists are able to claim a GST (Goods & Services Tax) refund on certain purchases when they leave Australia? The Tourist Refund Scheme allows international travellers take advantage of GST-free shopping if they are departing Australia and taking the products with them.

So if you need to buy a new phone, some expensive jewellery or perhaps just do some shopping for the next season, it’s worth looking into how much money you might save in Australia.

Sydney Airport tax refund FAQs

What is the trs.

The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) lets international travellers departing Australia claim GST back on some of the purchases they made while in the country.

What do you get back?

GST in Australia is 10% on most goods and services in Australia, so you can claim this back through the Tourist Refund Scheme. You’ll see the total GST amount on your tax invoice, or you can divide your purchase by 11 to find the GST amount.

What items can you get tax back at the airport on?

Most products in Australia have GST included in the price, and you can claim back the GST on most of these items if:

The amount you’ve spent at a single supplier is more than $300 (can be over multiple purchases on different days)
You’ve made the purchases within 60 days of your departure
You’ve got a valid tax invoice (more on that below)

You cannot claim GST back on things like food and drink, experiences or services, or anything that you consume (partly or wholly) in Australia, like food or perfume. You can claim GST back on items you have already opened and started using, provided they aren’t consumable.

You also need to have the items with you in your carry on luggage so the TRS staff can sight them at the TRS counter which is past security. If the goods are too big to put in your carry on then you’ll need to have them checked at the ABF (Australian Border Force) Client Services desk before you check in and receive a confirmation that they’ve been seen and approved before you check in your bag, then you can show your stamped form at the TRS counter once you’re through security to go through the remainder of the process.

What do you need in order to get a tax refund at Sydney Airport?

In order to get your tax back at Sydney Airport (or any other Australia international airport) you’ll need:

All the items you are claiming for (or a stamped form from the ABF to say the oversized goods have been sighted before check in)
A printed original tax invoice (not online, not photocopied) that shows all items from each separate store, which must include the GST amount, the business name, ABN and address, the date of purchase, and if the purchase is over $1000 it also must show your full name as per passport
Your passport and boarding pass
The credit card you want the refund processed to, or you can choose to be refunded to an Australian bank account instead

How do you claim tax back at Sydney Airport?

Once you go through security you need to make your way to the TRS office, which is a short walk to the left when you come through the duty free shops after security and passport control.

The TRS office can have long lines at busy times but when I visited there were only two people in front of me so it didn’t take long at all. Tp be safe though, and especially if you have quite a lot of stuff you want to claim for, get to the airport early and check in as early as you can to make sure you have time. If your flight is within 45 minutes of you being at the TRS office then they won’t process your refund because they don’t want to be the reason someone misses a flight.

At the TRS office you just need to show the goods you are claiming for and all the documents, they’ll pop your details into their system, and off you go to catch your flight!

How long does it take to receive the refund?

The website says it can take up to ten weeks to receive the refund however mine have always been much quicker. I’m sure it depends on demand so if you claim back around Christmas time it’s likely to be longer, but my most recent claim (June 2022) took only five days.

What other airports can you get a refund at?

You can claim GST back at any international airport in Australia, each international airport has a TRS facility. If the TRS facility isn’t staffed (we all know there have been severe staffing issues in airports right now) then you can speak to any ABF Officer and they’ll let you know where to go to process your tax refund before leaving.

You can also claim GST back in many other countries including Singapore and New Zealand too, always do a quick Google search before planning your trip because if you need to buy expensive items like a laptop or camera it can save you some decent money!

I hope this post has helped you figure out how to claim your GST and get a tax refund at Sydney Airport before departing Australia. I’ve used the TRS more than five times now and I’ll always plan my purchases out to make sure I can get an easy discount! Let me know your experience with the TRS in the comments below.

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February 27, 2023 at 6:04 pm

I would like to claim a tax refund on goods travelling in the hold. Can you please advise how I go about doing this. I cannot see anywhere at the airport (on the map) showing me where to go before I check in.

February 27, 2023 at 6:52 pm

Hey Carol! The ABF website says that you can have goods inspected by an ABF Officer before check in at the ABF desk at the arrival hall of terminal 1 by the glass elevators. If you get there and it’s not clear where to go then I’m sure you could just ask any ABF Officer and they’ll show you the way 🙂

June 5, 2023 at 10:11 am

What about purchasing items online we have confirmation receipts can we print that and use that as proof of purchase?

June 5, 2023 at 4:56 pm

My understanding is that you can claim GST back from online purchases within Australia as long as you have the required paperwork, like the full tax invoice with the company’s ABN number etc. I hope this helps!

September 17, 2023 at 11:10 am

I want to claim GST on new iPhone I just bought. I have already opened the packaging though. Am I able to claim GST of opened phones as well?

September 17, 2023 at 10:36 pm

You can claim GST back on things you have used and opened, provided they are not consumable (e.g. make up or perfume that’s been opened won’t be eligible, but things like clothing, phones or jewellery are eligible).

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The Tourist Refund Scheme

The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) allows you to claim a refund of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) on goods to the value of A$300 or more, purchased from a single business in Australia in the previous 60 days.

Claims can be made up to 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure of your flight, from the Tourist Refund Scheme office, located after security on the Departures Level within the main Sydney Airport Tax & Duty Free store. Allow at least 90 minutes prior to your flight departure to complete your claim.

To claim a refund, you must wear or carry the goods on board as hand luggage (liquids, gels or aerosols or oversized or bulky goods must be checked in) and present them along with your tax invoice, passport and international boarding pass to the TRS desk.

To speed up your processing time at the TRS desk, make an online claim . For more information, visit the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service website .

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Home » Travel & Tourism » How to Claim GST Refund at Sydney Airport

How to Claim GST Refund at Sydney Airport

According to the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), a tax refund can be claimed on the goods that are purchased in Australia. The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, which is situated on the Departures Level just after Customs within the main SYD Airport Tax & Duty Free store is operating the TRS. TRS is applicable for all overseas visitors and Australian residents to claim a refund on the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalization tax (WET) on goods that are bought in Australia.

According to the TRS, the bought items (eg: clothing, cameras, etc.) are allowed to be used during their stay in Australia and then when they leave the country they are allowed to get a specific amount back for the items which are not in the category of consumables like chocolates and wine.

Eligibility for a GST refund

If the purchases are:

• Made within60 days before leavingAustralia

• Amounting to $300 (GST inclusive) or more from any single business organization. For example, if the items are bought from one business (even on separate invoices) that amounting to $300, these items may be eligible for a tax refund under TRS.

• Goods are carried in (unless they are liquids, gels or aerosols) as hand luggage aboard through the aircraft as the person is leaving Australia, or the good could be checked in the luggage after they have been verified by an officer at the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service client services counter.

Purchases which are not eligible for refund

• Products such as beer, tobacco or spirit products.

• Goods that do not include GST/WET for them (e.g. medicines, etc.)

• Services (e.g. accommodation, tours warranties, vehicle hire, food items, etc.)

• Vouchers or gift cards

• Used up (in full or in part) in Australia (e.g. food, perfume, etc.).

• do not accompany you on your flight out of Australia.

How to Claim GST Refund at Sydney Airport?

Tax refund can be claimed by visiting TRS counter in the Sydney airport. As refunds, people can get back the total GST (price which paid for the eligible goods must be divided by 11). These refunds are debited to the Australian bank account within 30 days or paid to the credit card. It is an essential legal requirement that the person who purchases the goods should be the person who makes the claim for a refund of GST. It is also necessary to have the items which you are taking out of the country and documents such as the original tax invoices, the passport, boarding pass or other proof of travel. (Australian Customs and Border Protection Service, 2014)

References:

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Published: April 11, 2023

International travel from Australia is experiencing a surge as COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, allowing travelers to finally visit those incredible destinations they’ve been dreaming of for so long. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure purposes, now is the perfect time to pack your bags and embark on your next adventure. With the global vaccination efforts well underway and many countries reopening their borders to tourists, there are countless opportunities to explore new cultures, indulge in exotic cuisine, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. So why wait? Start planning your next international trip today and get ready to experience all the world has to offer.

Head Straight To The Tips

After completing their shopping, both international travelers and Australian residents may be eligible to receive a refund for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and/or Wine Equalization Tax (WET) on certain items they take out of the country by ship or aircraft. This program, called the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), is an initiative of the Australian Government. The TRS is applicable for goods that are purchased from a retailer who has an ABN and is registered for GST, and the prices of which include GST or WET.

So, let’s delve into the process of successfully claiming the TRS and at the end I would also share some tips which I think could be useful in this purpose.

Claiming TRS

Travelers can claim the TRS at the international airport if their purchases meet the following requirements:

Goods are purchased from a single business with the same Australian business number (ABN), but not different stores within that business if they have different ABNs
Goods must total AUD$300 (including GST) or more
Goods are purchased within 60 days of departing Australia
You must have the original paper tax invoice/s for the goods
You must get a valid paper tax invoice in English with:
your name (and only your name) as it appears in your passport if the invoice is $1,000 or more
a description of the goods that allows TRS officials to match the goods to the invoice
the retailer’s name, address and ABN (ACNs and ARNs not accepted)
the amount of GST or WET paid (or total price including GST)
the date of purchase
You, as the travelling passenger, must have paid for the goods yourself
You carry or wear the goods on-board the aircraft or ship as cabin baggage unless they are oversized or subject to aviation security measures (and the airline requires them to be checked in as “hold” luggage)
Residents of Australia’s external territories (e.g., Christmas Island, Norfolk Island, and the Keeling Islands) can also get a GST refund if they export the goods to their home territory as baggage or as cargo
You must have oversized, and restricted goods sighted by ABF Client services before checking in and take the stamped invoices to the TRS Facility on the day of departure
You must claim in person by showing your passport, boarding pass and original tax invoices to the TRS Facility on the day of your departure:
more than 30 minutes before your scheduled departure at an airport
1-4 hours before your scheduled departure at a seaport
Declare any goods you bring back to Australia, for which a TRS claim was made by you or another person when the goods left Australia.
On returning to Australia, you must declare the goods at Question 3 on your Incoming Passenger Card (IPC)
Penalties may apply if you fail to declare these items
If you bring goods back into Australia for which a GST refund via the TRS has been claimed, the goods must be declared, and if the value of those goods (combined with any other overseas/duty free purchases) exceeds the passenger concession allowance, any applicable GST and/or duty may need to be paid unless another concession (example, all personal clothing – except furs) is available.

Allowances for TRS (Dos)

You can make several purchases over several days
You can calculate the GST refund amount yourself by dividing the total price in dollars by 11
You can ask your domestic airline to make your goods available to you before your international connection
Take your passport to ensure the name on the passport is the same on the tax invoice
Only claim at your last port of departure from Australia (this may be different to where you originally boarded your aircraft or cruise ship)
Only get refunds paid to you or another person by:
credit card (Amex, Diners, JCB, MasterCard, Union Pay, Visa)
Australian bank account
mailed cheque (not recommended)

TRS restrictions (don’ts)

TRS has a large number of restrictions that must be understood before applying. Here they are in full:

get a cash refund
use photocopied, reprinted or duplicate invoices
ship goods separately
when it is less than 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time
at a domestic airport
before the day of departure
after you leave Australia
if you are operating air or sea crew
if you are buying for a business
if the invoice has a name other than your own as the buyer
alcohol except wine with alcohol content less than 22%
tobacco and tobacco products
dangerous goods which are prohibited on an aircraft or ship for safety reasons; liquids, gas cylinders and fireworks
goods wholly or partially consumed in Australia; food, drinks, perfume
cosmetic enhancements that are attached permanently; hair implants, dental work / implants, hair extensions and breast implants
gift cards and vouchers; goods purchased with gift cards or vouchers are eligible for a refund subject to all other TRS requirements being met
unaccompanied goods; freighted and posted goods unless the goods are being exported to an External Australian Territory by a resident of that territory
goods purchased overseas and imported into Australia
GST-free goods; abalone, baby food, medications, medical aids and appliances, lenses for prescription spectacles, nebulisers, CPAP breathing machines
services; accommodation, taxis and tours, house plans and drawings, car rental, shipping/postage charges, warranties and labour charges, training and educational courses or the course documents/materials (physical or digital).

Starting the Process by Lodging online

You can complete your claim online before you fly. This process won’t actually lodge it, but it can reduce your time at an airport TRS facility, as the officer won’t have to type in all your details. The Australian Government Department of Home Affairs has developed online and mobile Tourist Refund Scheme apps that allow you to enter the information required.

These apps allow you to store details in a Quick Response (QR) code that can be scanned at some TRS facilities. To lodge your TRS claim in Australia with apps you must:

Enter your travel details
Enter details of the goods for which you are claiming a refund of GST and/or WET
Enter how you prefer to receive your tax refund
If you have more than ten invoices, enter them in batches of ten and print a QR code for each batch
On your departure day, present the TRS facility your goods, original paper tax invoices and QR codes

On The Day of Departure (Most Important) :

I will now detail the process of lodging the claim at the airport, specifically at Sydney International Airport, as this was where I began my travel. Please note that the following description and all the photos provided pertain to those who wish to lodge the claim at the TRS facility at Sydney International Airport, as this will be their final port before departing Australia.

As you arrive at the airport you would see the information desk along with some retailers and a few signage where it says Rideshare & Pick-up . This is a very spacious area and with lots of displays. It is also located at level 1. Now, to get to TRS office you keep going down the hallway towards Arrivals B .

As you come near the end, you would notice the signage for Australian Border Force – TRS ABF Client Services – which would be on the next level.

After taking the lift, as you come up to the level 2, there you would find the TRS office. Depending on the time of the day and number of people present at the time of your visit, you might have to wait a bit until your turn comes. The officers would sight the invoices as well as the goods however, they would only sign off those invoices for which the concerning items you intend to carry only inside your checked baggage or as oversized item.

In short, the TRS facility at level 2 would sign off those items that you don’t carry with you . And hence, since you still have few items to take with you in your carry-on luggage, all those invoices would be left out at this stage.

Once your items have been verified and the invoices signed, you will return to level 1 to check in your baggage at the counter of your airline. After checking in your baggage, you will proceed to the immigration procedure. Upon entering the departure terminal, you will join the immigration queue which typically takes only a few minutes, depending on your travel document.

After completing the immigration process, you will arrive on the other side of the terminal where you will find all the duty-free shops. The final step in claiming your refund is to locate the TRS office within the departure terminal and present any items that you still have in your carry-on luggage. The TRS office is located on the left-hand side near gate 8. Once you show them the items, they will verify the claim and provide you with a receipt indicating the amount you will receive. That’s it! In the next few days, the refund will be deposited into your nominated account (if you selected bank transfer as your preferred method of receiving the refund).

Helpful Tips To Maximize Your Gain

Lodge TRS online and get a QR Code
Have your invoices printed in case of digital copies (Make sure the invoices have “TAX INVOICE” written on them)
Got some big-ticket items to purchase that you want to claim the GST? Well, you only got some sixty (60) days from the day you purchase till the day you claim. So, buying too early during a sale might come with a loss later ! (Keep Reading)
You can buy as much clothing you would like; you can bring all of it back. But for the rest, its only up to 900 AUD worth that you get exemption. So, buying big ticket electronics can get you out of concession quickly!
Purchasing from Amazon (AU) is NOT recommended unless the item itself is worth more than 300 AUD as Amazon doesn’t give you invoices with their ABN in most cases . You have to collect the invoice form individual seller for each item. So, if you want to make several purchases with smaller amounts Amazon is not the best option.
For smaller amounts purchasing from MYER, JB HI-FI, Officeworks etc. are recommended as for all the items I purchased from MYER for instance, such as bags, pans, clothing etc. always had MYER ABN on them. It is worth noting that MYER marketplace items have MYER ABN instead of the ABN of that individual seller. And since the ABN is same, all those purchases count towards 300 AUD threshold.

For more information, visit the website , email [email protected] or

Telephone: If you are calling the TRS from within Australia: 1300 555 043 If you are calling the TRS from outside Australia: +61 2 6245 5499.

Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), Australian Border Force
Tourist Refund Scheme, Australian Government, Australian Taxation Office
Tourist Refund Scheme, Sydney Airport

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