What this does: This order cancels a previous tax break (called a 'tariff concession') that allowed certain industrial equipment to be imported into Australia at lower customs duty rates.
Who it affects: Companies importing 'pallet cars, ignition furnaces, and sinter plant' equipment (classified under tariff code 8417.90.00). These are heavy industrial items used in manufacturing processes, particularly in steelmaking or ore processing.
What changes: As of 27 July 2011, importers of this equipment must pay the standard (higher) import duties instead of the concessional rate that had been available since April 2008.
Why it matters: This increases the cost of importing these specific industrial goods, likely because local Australian manufacturers can now supply equivalent equipment.