The Australian variety is considered an inferior product. It is...

The Australian variety is considered an inferior product. It is used for incense, but not for perfume and medical applications. The Indian variety attracts a considerable price premium. (Not to say that the Australian variety is not valuable - just not as valuable.)

I've read that during the late 19th century that there was a lot of sandalwood in SA and the government has a tariff on its exportation. Chinese merchants mysteriously needed a lot more firewood for the trip back to China and it was brought on board in large quantities. No guesses for what timber made up most of the 'firewood'.