Hey Guys,
Thanks for all your replies. I was on to Customs and Revenue and they directed me to the public notice below:
http://www.revenue.ie/en/tax/vrt/leaflets/tax-relief-transfer-residence.html
VAT and VRT are not applicable on transfer of residence from outside of the EU provided that you are resident in the foreign country for at least 12 months prior to transfer and you own the vehicle for 6 months prior to transfer.
It was unclear if there are any other Customs duties applicable. (CCT).
The people in Customs were fairly sure that I would not be liable for any charges provided these conditions were met and the transfer was genuine.
Shipping from Australia to Ireland is not as expensive as it may seem. You have the option of going in a Roll on Roll Off Car Ferry or using a Shipping Container for 2- 2500 euro. Additional insurance if chosen comes to about another 2000 euro. The time for shipping is 40 - 60 days.
Cars in Australia are quite cheap. There is no VRT, only 3% stanp duty which the garage usually takes the hit on/factors into the selling price.
No Modifications need to occur on the car. Also the car that I have is a European car so any after sales service should be available in Ireland.
There is a slow down occurring here in Australia. I was lucky to get my hands on my motor at a decent price and when the aussie dollar was getting hammered so I got a good deal. There is no way I could afford this car at home.
Anyway, thanks for all your replies and making this website an invaluable source of knowledge.
Kind Regards,
Colm