On 24 April 2026, understanding Australian luxury car tax is essential for anyone purchasing a high-value vehicle. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about LCT rules, thresholds, exemptions, and calculations.
What Is Australian Luxury Car Tax?
Luxury car tax (LCT) is a federal tax administered by the ATO that applies to new vehicles exceeding a price threshold. Introduced to ensure high-value vehicle purchases contribute appropriately to tax revenue, LCT operates alongside GST and state stamp duty.
The tax applies at the point of purchase or import, and dealers typically include it in the total price or itemise it separately.
2026 LCT Thresholds and Rates
The current LCT parameters for 2026:
- Fuel vehicles: AUD 89,332 threshold, 33% rate
- Electric vehicles: AUD 91,316 threshold, 33% rate
The EV threshold was set higher in 2022 specifically to encourage zero-emission vehicle adoption among luxury vehicle buyers.
Who Pays LCT?
LCT applies to anyone purchasing a new vehicle in Australia when all these conditions are met:
- Vehicle is under 2 years old at time of purchase
- Vehicle price exceeds the applicable threshold
- Vehicle is not a commercial vehicle (GVM over 3,500kg)
- Vehicle is not a primary production vehicle
Exemptions and Special Cases
Vehicles Over 2 Years Old
The 2-year rule means used luxury vehicles do not attract LCT. This creates a significant market for pre-owned luxury cars that can be purchased without the additional tax burden.
Commercial Vehicles
Commercial vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass exceeding 3,500kg are exempt from LCT. This includes most SUVs, utes, and light commercial trucks used primarily for business purposes.
Primary Production Vehicles
Vehicles used directly in primary production (agriculture, mining, fishing) may qualify for exemption, though specific criteria apply.
Philanthropy Exemption
Luxury vehicles donated to deductible gift recipients may be exempt from LCT under specific circumstances.
LCT and GST Relationship
LCT is calculated on the GST-inclusive price of the vehicle. The relationship means both taxes compound on the base price:
- GST at 10% is added to the pre-tax dealer price
- LCT at 33% is then calculated on the GST-inclusive total
- For a AUD 120,000 vehicle: GST = AUD 12,000, LCT = AUD 10,120
State Stamp Duty — Additional Consideration
Beyond LCT and GST, each state charges stamp duty on vehicle purchases. Rates vary significantly:
- NSW: Tiered from 3% to 5% based on value
- VIC: 5.5% for vehicles over AUD 100,000
- QLD: 3% for most vehicles
- WA: 4.75% flat rate
Summary
The Australian luxury car tax applies 33% to the amount above threshold, with fuel vehicles at AUD 89,332 and EVs at AUD 91,316. Understanding exemptions and the relationship with GST and stamp duty helps buyers budget accurately for high-value vehicle purchases.