Find a used car you want to buy. You can purchase from a dealer, an auction or a private individual. Because buying a used car is such a popular and relatively inexpensive way for backpackers to get around in Australia, many dealers cater to travelers. Some dealers even arrange buy-backs when you are finished with the car and want to leave Australia.
Check the Register for Encumbered Vehicles on your potential purchase online. The REV will inform you whether the previous owner has any debts on the car, which you will inherit if you purchase it. The REV will also inform you if the car is stolen. If you buy a stolen car in Australia, you are subject to arrest. If the car is not encumbered, you can buy an REV certificate for $12. This certificate will protect you from repossession if you later learn that someone else owes money on the car.
Unless you are an expert automobile mechanic, have the car inspected by one, or by an organization like the Royal Automotive Club. The local branch of the RAC will complete an inspection for you for a small fee. This is particularly important if you buy a car with a registration that will expire while you own it, because you will not be able to resell it if it does not pass a safety inspection. Ask the current owner to show you the pink slip from the car's most recent safety inspection. Not every state has the same requirements for auto inspections. In some states, the seller is required to show you a pink slip. Some states require safety inspections before a car is bought or sold, others require annual inspections for registration renewal and still others require no inspections at all. Find out what is required in your state at the RAC.
Buy a car that is registered in the state you plan to sell it in. When you buy a car in Australia, it comes with registration. This registration is good until the expiration date. You must have a local address (this could be your hotel) in the state the car is registered in. Your car will be difficult to sell if it is registered in another state.
Have the current owner of the car sign over the title and registration to you. The owner should already have this paperwork prepared. Do not pay for, or drive away, a car without this paperwork. You should also check the current owner's identification to ensure he is the person listed on the current registration and title.
Visit a local Motor Registry within 14 days of purchase. Bring your proof of purchase (receipt), at least two forms of identification, and money to pay the stamp duty and transfer fee. These fees vary by state. Once you deliver this information to the Motor Registry, your purchase is complete.
