What this does: This order cancels a previous duty exemption (called a tariff concession) for specific industrial air filtration equipment used in power stations.
Who it affects:
- Importers of specialised "filter houses" for turbine power stations — specifically computer-controlled systems (programmable logic controlled) that include frames, inlet filters, hoods, plenums, evaporators, and sensors.
- Any business importing this equipment under customs code 8421.39.00.
The practical effect:
- Previously, these goods could enter Australia duty-free (or at reduced duty) under Tariff Concession Order 0921209.
- From 17 December 2009, this exemption ended. Companies must now pay standard customs duties on these imports.
Why it matters: This increases costs for energy companies building or upgrading turbine power stations that rely on these sophisticated filtration systems to protect turbines from dust and debris.