Savvy travellers know the value of maximising every dollar. The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) helps by refunding the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on eligible purchases. Here's how to make the most of this scheme and enhance your travels.
What is the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)?
The Tourist Refund Scheme is a government initiative aimed at promoting tourism by offering tax refunds on eligible goods purchased within a country. This incentive is available in various destinations around the world, each with its specific regulations and processes.
Who Can Claim the Tourist Refund Scheme When Leaving Australia?
Despite its name, the Tourist Refund Scheme isn’t just for tourists. Anyone departing Australia can claim a GST refund – this includes citizens and overseas visitors. So if you reside in Australia, this doesn’t mean you have to leave for good. As long as you’re heading overseas – even just for a holiday – you can claim the TRS refund.
What Purchases Are Eligible for the GST Refund?
To benefit from the Tourist Refund Scheme, it’s essential to know which goods qualify. Examples include:
- Electronics: Cameras, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
- Fashion Items: Clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry.
- Souvenirs: Artworks, handicrafts, and local specialties.
- Luxury Goods: Watches, handbags, and designer items.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The purchase must be $300 or greater.
- You must have paid for the goods yourself.
- The purchase must be made no more than 60 days before your date of departure from Australia.
- The original hardcopy tax invoice needs to be presented (no duplicates or digital versions are accepted).
- Online purchases made from an Australian retailer are eligible for the GST refund, but you’ll need to print a copy of the invoice for presentation at the TRS counter.
What Can’t You Claim Under the Tourist Refund Scheme?
You can’t claim a refund on goods purchased from a business or entity that isn’t registered for GST. Broadly, you can’t claim a refund on GST-free goods, as no tax has been applied. Here are some examples of items you can’t claim a GST refund for:
- Services like accommodation, transport, and car hire.
- Dangerous goods.
- Tobacco and tobacco products.
- Alcohol, with the exception of wine with less than 22% alcohol content.
- Medication and medical aids.
- Gift cards.
- Unaccompanied goods that are shipped, or any goods that you’re not carrying on the plane with you.
For a comprehensive list, refer to the Australian Border Force website.
How Much Do You Need to Spend to Receive a GST Refund When You Leave Australia?
There’s a minimum spend requirement of AUD $300 at a single retailer before you’re eligible for the GST refund. This can be across several transactions, as long as the total is over $300. For purchases over $1,000, the invoice must include the identity of the buyer. To work out the refund payable, simply divide the total price paid by 11. For example, an item that costs AUD $600 including GST may be eligible for a AUD $54.54 refund via TRS.
Where is the Tourist Refund Scheme Office?
If Your Purchase is Part of Your Carry-On Luggage
There's an office at every airport but if you're in Sydney, after you have checked in for your flight, please make your way through Passport Control and Security. The TRS office is to the right of the Heinemann Duty Free entrance. Be sure to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to your flight departure to allow sufficient time for the TRS Officers to complete your claim.
If Your Purchase is Packed in Luggage You Intend to Check In
For items such as powders, liquids, aerosols, gels, and oversized items (like golf clubs) that you can't take on board due to restrictions, take your goods to the Australian Border Force Office for verification before checking in your luggage. The office is located on the Arrivals Level of the T1 International terminal near the Swissport office and glass lifts. Complete this step before checking your luggage for your flight.
If the TRS Offices are Closed
The Australian Border Force aims to staff the TRS offices before all departing international flights. If the counters are closed, you may be able to submit your claim by filling in a form and dropping your information into the dropbox located at the departures office. This option is available at the TRS office to the right of the Heinemann Duty Free entrance.
For more information, visit the Sydney Airport TRS page.
Speed Up Your TRS Claim Using the Mobile App or Website
You can’t lodge the GST refund online, but you can speed up the process at your point of departure by entering some details online before you arrive at the airport. Use the My TRS Claim online portal or download the Australian Border Force mobile app for Android or iOS.
How to Apply for the TRS GST Refund When Leaving Australia
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Plan Your Shopping:
- Identify participating retailers before shopping.
- Ensure purchases meet the minimum spend requirement.
2. Make Eligible Purchases:
- Confirm goods are eligible for a refund under the TRS.
- Keep all receipts organized and legible.
3. Prepare for Departure:
- Arrive at the airport with ample time to process your refund.
- Have goods, receipts, passport, boarding pass, and refund form ready.
4. Visit the TRS Counter:
- Follow airport signs to the TRS counter.
- Present goods, receipts, and the completed refund form.
- Be ready for a possible inspection of goods.
5. Receive Your Refund:
- Choose your preferred refund method (credit card or cheque).
- Complete the process and confirm details.
FAQs
How do I claim back GST when I leave Australia? To reclaim the GST on eligible goods, head to the TRS counter at your departure point with the necessary documents and the items you’re claiming for. The TRS counter is where you’ll submit your claim for a GST refund.
Can Australian citizens claim TRS? Yes, Australian citizens can make a TRS claim on eligible purchases, provided these purchases were made no more than 60 days before their departure from Australia.
Can you claim the TRS GST refund online? No, you cannot submit the TRS GST refund online. The items must be presented for inspection to Australian Border Force personnel along with your boarding pass and original tax invoice.
How can I speed up the TRS GST refund process at the airport in Australia? Although the refund can’t be lodged online, you can expedite the process by entering your details beforehand. Use the My TRS Claim website or the Australian Border Force mobile app to input your personal details and the specifics of your purchase, generating a QR code that will simplify your time at the refund counter.
The Tourist Refund Scheme is a fantastic way for travelers to save money by claiming a refund on the taxes paid for their purchases. Understanding how the scheme works and following the steps outlined above can help you maximize your savings and enhance your travel experience. Happy travels!
Have you used the TRS? Share in the comments below!