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How to Become An Importer

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What is a Importer

An importer brings goods from overseas into Australia to sell or supply locally. This is a key role in global trade. Importers keep Australian businesses and consumers stocked with products from around the world.

Day to day, importers research overseas markets and build ties with suppliers. They manage the logistics of moving goods across borders. They handle everything from setting prices to lodging import declarations and dealing with customs.

Importers also need to stay on top of Australian trade rules. Tariffs, biosecurity rules, labelling laws, and safety standards can all change. It is the importer’s job to keep their business on the right side of the law.

If you enjoy working with global markets, solving logistics puzzles, and running a business, importing could be a great career. It offers real variety and the chance to build something of your own.

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Career Outlook for Importer

An importing career offers good long-term stability. Around 3,200 people work in this field in Australia, based on recent data. Most work full-time in steady, permanent roles, about 44 hours a week.

The median age is around 48 years. This shows how much experience counts in this field. Pay runs from $60,000 for new starters to over $110,000 for those who build strong businesses.

The future looks solid for skilled importers. Global supply chains keep growing in scale. Australian businesses need imports across many sectors. Those who know the rules and build good supplier ties can expect steady work.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become an Importer

Step 1: Complete a qualification in business or logistics

Study a Bachelor of Business or Bachelor of Commerce at an Australian university. A major in international trade, logistics, or supply chain management is a good fit. This takes 3 years full-time. Alternatively, complete a Certificate IV in Logistics (TLI40319) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes around 12 months full-time and covers supply chain, warehousing, and freight skills.

Step 2: Learn Australian customs and import requirements

Study the rules set by the Australian Border Force (ABF). Importers must know how to lodge import declarations, classify goods under tariff rules, and meet biosecurity needs. Complete short courses in customs compliance through a TAFE or RTO. Check training.gov.au for current units in customs administration.

Step 3: Gain hands-on experience in import or logistics operations

Work for a freight forwarder, customs broker, or wholesale distributor. Target roles in import operations, trade compliance, or supply chain work. Aim for 1 to 2 years of practical experience before working as an independent importer. This builds direct knowledge of import paperwork, supplier contact, and the ABF’s Integrated Cargo System (ICS).

Step 4: Build a supplier network in your product category

Attend Australian and overseas trade fairs to connect with manufacturers and distributors. Learn the Australian standards, labelling laws, and biosecurity rules that apply to your goods. The Export Council of Australia offers networking events and training for trade professionals at all career stages.

Step 5: Register your business and begin importing

Register your business with ASIC and get an Australian Business Number (ABN). Set up your importer profile with the ABF through the Integrated Cargo System (ICS). Start with a small product range to test the market. Use a licensed customs broker for your first shipments until you are confident managing customs clearance yourself.

What does an Importer do?

An importer’s day covers a wide range of tasks. They research overseas suppliers and check whether new products have a market in Australia. Once a supplier is found, they negotiate prices and trade terms. From there, they arrange shipping, lodge customs declarations, and check that goods meet Australian safety and labelling rules. They stay in contact with freight forwarders and customs brokers throughout. They also track business performance and look for ways to grow their product range or find better-priced suppliers.

Tasks

As an importer, you manage every step of getting goods from an overseas supplier to Australian buyers. Here are the key tasks involved:

  • Researching overseas markets and finding reliable suppliers
  • Negotiating prices, delivery terms, and payment conditions
  • Coordinating freight, insurance, and customs clearance
  • Lodging import declarations with the Australian Border Force
  • Checking goods comply with Australian safety and labelling laws
  • Managing stock levels and distribution to Australian buyers
  • Preparing financial reports and tracking business performance

Skills for Success

To succeed as an importer, you need a mix of business know-how and practical logistics skills. Negotiation is a key skill. You will spend a lot of time agreeing on prices, delivery terms, and quality rules with overseas suppliers.

You also need to understand Australian import rules. This includes customs declarations, biosecurity checks, labelling laws, and tariff schedules. Other useful skills include financial analysis, market research, and logistics work. The more you know about supply chains and shipping, the better you can manage costs. This keeps your business running smoothly.

Skills & Attributes

  • Negotiation with overseas suppliers and local distributors
  • Knowledge of Australian customs law and import rules
  • Supply chain and logistics coordination
  • Market research and opportunity analysis
  • Financial management and budgeting
  • Compliance with biosecurity and product safety standards
  • Documentation and record-keeping
  • Communication across cultures and time zones
  • Use of import software and trade management tools
  • Business planning and strategy
  • Relationship management with freight forwarders and customs brokers
  • Analytical skills for tracking business performance
  • Time management across multiple shipments and deadlines
  • Problem-solving when shipments are delayed or compliance issues arise
  • Adaptability to changing trade policies and market conditions

Average Salaries

Importers in Australia earn around $80,000 a year on average (recent Australian salary data, 2025). Entry-level roles start at about $60,000. Experienced workers and business owners can earn $110,000 or more.

min $60 K

max $110 K

av $80 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.