RAWS Compliance Australia: Japanese Vehicle Imports Explained
What RAWS is, when it applies to Japanese imports, and how a broker manages compliance so your vehicle can be registered in Australia.
Summary
RAWS (Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme) is the Australian scheme under which approved workshops modify or certify vehicles to meet Australian Design Rules. For many Japanese car, van and truck imports, RAWS compliance is a required step before registration. A broker coordinates this as part of the import process so your vehicle lands ready for registration.
What Is RAWS?
RAWS stands for Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme. Workshops approved under RAWS are authorised to modify or certify certain imported vehicles so they comply with Australian Design Rules (ADRs). The outcome is documentation that allows the vehicle to be registered in Australia. Not every imported vehicle requires RAWS work — it depends on the model and ADR requirements — but for a large number of Japanese imports, RAWS compliance is a necessary step.
When Does RAWS Apply to Japanese Imports?
Whether a Japanese car, van or truck needs to go through a RAWS workshop depends on the vehicle’s build date, type and the ADRs that apply. As your Japanese car import broker, we confirm eligibility and what compliance steps are required, including RAWS where applicable. We then manage the process so the vehicle is modified or certified correctly and you receive the documentation needed for registration in your state or territory.
Why Use a Broker for RAWS and Compliance?
Coordinating RAWS and full compliance yourself can be complex and time-consuming. A broker handles eligibility checks, arranges RAWS work where required, and coordinates shipping and clearance. We service Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra and Hobart. We also have team on the ground in Japan who inspect and purchase from auction on your behalf, so you get one point of contact from Japan to your driveway.
FAQ
No. It depends on the vehicle and ADR requirements. We confirm what is needed for each vehicle before you commit.
As your broker we coordinate compliance and certification, including RAWS work where required, so the vehicle is ready for registration.