Thanks guys,
I funded the carnet paying the 10% premium and my carnet value of the vehicle was £2500 (Customs said stamp duty and gst is based on the carnet value of the car). So I paid £1,250.00 with 50% to be refunded upon carnet clearance.

I checked with the crusher people and they do issue some sort of document legalising that the vehicle has been destroyed. Roger!, do you think I may still have to pay stamp duties and taxes on the car anyway, even though I wouldnt be importing?

As in keeping both sides happy (RAC Carnet in UK and Aussie Customs), I hope the document highlighting that the car has been officially destroyed would meet both needs that a car hasnt been illegally importated... But as it says in the Carnet, I would need permission first.

If RAC (RL Davidson) didnt accept that crushing the car meets the carnet criteria, would I be liable for incuring costs above and beyond the loss of my deposit? As in would they take my deposit and ask for further costs?

As you said, customs are happy to play ball as long as i can get the VIA, but Im forseeing this to be one giant beauracratic mountain to overcome, and im not confident that ill get past it. Ill apply for VIA and hope for the best, but I really think that failing that I would attempt to get permission to destroy the car?

Thanks again and advance for your help

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