What this does: This order cancels a previous tax break (Tariff Concession Order 0925662 from October 2009) that allowed certain desalination and wastewater treatment equipment to be imported into Australia without paying customs duty.
Who it affects: Businesses importing desalination wastewater treatment plants classified under tariff code 8479.10.00. This specifically covers plants comprising components such as piping, pumps, valves, manifolds, diffusers, mixers, electrical instrumentation, thickeners, and centrifuges.
What changes: From 27 July 2011, these goods no longer qualify for duty-free importation and will be subject to standard customs tariffs. The concession officially ended on 26 July 2011.
Why it matters: This increases costs for companies importing water treatment infrastructure, potentially affecting the price of desalination and wastewater projects.