Australia is a strategic export market for French wine producers. However, its alcohol taxation system is one of the most complex and costly in the world. In 2026, the signing of an Australia-European Union free trade agreement could profoundly change the landscape.
The New Free Trade Agreement
On March 24, 2026, Australia and the European Union announced the conclusion of negotiations for their free trade agreement. The agreement provides for improved access to the Australian market for European wines, notably through the removal of customs duties applicable to certain still and sparkling wines once the agreement enters into force. At this stage, these tariff advantages are not yet applicable.
The Wine Equalisation Tax (WET): The Fiscal Pillar
Unlike France where taxes are often based on volume (excise), the Australian WET is an ad valorem tax (based on value). It applies at a rate of 29% of the taxable value of the wine.
For imported wine, the taxable value (Value of Taxable Importation) includes:
- The Customs Value of the goods (CVAL)
- International transport costs
- Insurance
- Customs duties (5%, until the agreement enters into force)
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
GST is the Australian equivalent of VAT, fixed at a flat rate of 10%. It applies to the sum of the taxable value and the WET amount. It is therefore a tax applied on another tax, increasing the final fiscal impact.
Labeling and Biosecurity Compliance
Beyond taxation, Australia is extremely rigorous regarding physical compliance:
- FSANZ Standard: The label must mention the number of "Standard Drinks", allergens (sulfites, milk, egg), and pregnancy health warnings.
- Biosecurity: Wood packaging must be ISPM15 treated. Any organic residue on pallets can lead to costly quarantine by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
Conclusion
Exporting to Australia remains a lucrative opportunity for high-end estates capable of absorbing high ad valorem taxation. At Vastorg, we support you in precisely calculating your landed costs and verifying your labels to avoid any customs blockages in Sydney or Melbourne.
Shipping from anywhere in France? Our guide to choosing a wine logistics company covers what to check before handing your shipments to a freight forwarder. And whether you're exporting several pallets or simply looking to send wine to Australia for a one-off shipment, the same tax rules apply either way.
Frequently asked questions on customs and destinations
Can Vastorg ship wine internationally?
Yes. Vastorg lets wine professionals ship from France to a wide range of international destinations.
Every shipment depends on the destination, volume, value of the bottles, recipient status, and the rules of the destination country.
What types of wine can be shipped?
Vastorg covers still wines, sparkling wines and champagnes. Vastorg does not ship spirits.
Some destinations may apply specific restrictions depending on the wine type, alcohol level, quantity, or recipient status.
Does the quote include duties and taxes on arrival?
No. The final amount of the duties and taxes levied by the destination country (excise duties aside) is known after delivery. Depending on the incoterm chosen, that amount is invoiced to the shipper or to the recipient.
Why does the price vary by country?
Each country applies its own import, tax, customs, and transport rules. The final cost can therefore vary significantly by destination, even for the same number of bottles.
Which countries can Vastorg ship wine to?
Vastorg can organise shipments to many destinations in Europe and beyond. Feasibility depends on local alcohol import rules, recipient status, and the transport mode available. The available countries are listed at the start of the shipping process.
Can I ship wine to the United States?
Yes. One thing sets it apart from other destinations: a Prior Notice must be filed with the FDA before the shipment leaves (Vastorg handles this). Some states also apply their own restrictions on alcohol entering their territory.
Can I ship wine to the United Kingdom?
Yes. Since Brexit, shipments to the United Kingdom require specific customs formalities.