I also read in one of the other forums that you dont get charged GST because it is safety gear.
i also believe in supporting local businesses but when it comes to riding gear you need to get the best that you can afford.if that means ordering in from the states then good on you.
if local industries cared so much they would lower prices which inturn would boost sales numbers.
or what about this outrageous idea- the government subsidizes safety gear making it cheaper. the average joe gets better quality gear and the cost of medical treatment and reabilitation goes down...