If you’re planning on doing some shopping on your visit to Australia (and who wouldn’t), the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) is something you want to know about. The TRS enables you to claim a refund for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) you pay on any non-consumable products you buy.

You can make a claim under the TRS on almost anything that you have paid a GST or WET on. This includes cameras, clothing, souvenirs and just about anything else you can think of. Consumable products may be eligible, as long as they have not been opened, or wholly or partially consumed before your departure. This includes wines, perfumes, chocolates or food products. The TRS does not apply to services.

Spending more than $300 at any one store within thirty days of your departure makes you eligible for the TRS. Purchases need not be made all at once, but must be within the thirty day period and be displayed on a single tax invoice.

A tax invoice is essential if you want to make a claim under the TRS. This invoice will be clearly marked as a tax invoice, and include the name and Australian Business Number (ABN) of the retailer, the purchasing price including the GST, a description of the goods purchased and the date the purchase was made.

Claims can be made at TRS facilities after you have passes through Customs at any international airport or seaport in Australia. You will need to have the goods with you as proof of purchase, so don’t start digging into the chocolates too soon!