The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) is part of the Australian Government's tax system. The TRS allows Australians and overseas visitors to claim a refund, (subject to certain conditions), of the goods and services tax (GST) paid on goods bought in Australia and then taken out of Australia in checked luggage or carry-on bags.
When making a claim you need to take your goods, original tax invoice(s), passport and boarding pass to the TRS facility.
Operating air and sea crew are not eligible to claim a refund.
All liquids over 100ml must be placed in checked luggage after TRS inspection.
You can make a claim for a tax refund by visiting the TRS facility in an international airport or at the cruise liner terminal at your final port of departure from Australia. The refund will be paid into an Australian bank account, to a credit card, or by cheque (in limited currencies), within 60 days of the claim being lodged.
The mobile or web TRS app allows you to enter the information required to lodge a TRS claim. Currently the app is only available for passengers travelling on international flights departing Australia and international cruises.