Mystery Import Fee

[cryingcyclops]

I purchased an item located in the USA for $36.50 and shipping was $33.71 -- a total of $70.21

GST in Australia gets charged by many online retailers now, like eBay, which is 10% -- should be $7.02

I was charged $11.27 for "Import Fees" by eBay.  ?????  what is the other 6% for ????  There are NO import fees into Australia.  Australian customs may verify GST has been paid on goods arriving into the country, but that is it.   Why is eBay stealing 6% from me, and how many others?

[gutterpunkz05]

Probably not much of a mystery,  I am guessing the item is being shipped via  GSP,

International  companies, including shipping companies, that are required to collect and remit GST on behalf of the ATO, are permitted to add what ever charge they feel like for  doing so, on top of the GST, and can call any such fee anything they like.

[sandypebbles]

Certainly sounds like that is what this fee is that 'eBay are stealing'