It's potentially a good move to import yourself rather than buy from an import dealer for the knowledge and experience about the whole import process. However, don't go into it thinking that you're going to save a fortune in the process, there of hidden costs.

I am not going to suggest that import dealers don't make money out of the whole process, however you're going to save $1500-2000 in a best case scenario.

If you're financing the vehicle, then you're going to need a project loan that will allow you to send varying amounts of money to different parties including overseas and be able to send it over a 2-3 month period. The car will not be able to be used as security for the loan so it will attract a reasonably high interest rate; although you should be able to refinance once the car in landed, complied and registered.

Also, when you import yourself if there are any problems with the car those problems are yours and yours alone. If you buy from a licensed dealer then the car will come with a statutory 3 month warranty.

If you need any assistance with the import process then fell free to send me a PM, I researched it extensively not too long ago so I might be able to give you some ideas. Although you may have some minor issues living in Perth that are not so evident living in the eastern states.