The Answer
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Stamp duty, rego transfer, CTP insurance, and the real cost of buying a car in every state.
Choose Your State
New South WalesGuide for NSW
VictoriaGuide for VIC
QueenslandGuide for QLD
Western AustraliaGuide for WA
South AustraliaGuide for SA
TasmaniaGuide for TAS
Northern TerritoryGuide for NT
Australian Capital TerritoryGuide for ACT
On-Road Costs — NSW
| Cost | NSW Detail |
|---|---|
| Vehicle stamp duty | 3% up to $45,000, then 5% over $45,000 |
| Registration transfer fee | ~$27–$45 |
| CTP insurance | Competitive — buy a Green Slip from 6 approved insurers |
| Roadworthy/safety inspection | $100–$200 (if required) |
Budget an extra 8–15% on top of the purchase price for on-road costs. A $20,000 car in NSW may cost $22,000–$23,000 once stamp duty, rego transfer, and CTP are added.
Buying Checklist
- Check the car's history — use a PPSR check ($2 at ppsr.gov.au) to confirm it's not stolen, written off, or has money owing
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic ($150–$300)
- Check the rego status and expiry date with your state transport authority
- Negotiate the price — use recent sales data from carsales.com.au or redbook.com.au
- Complete the transfer of registration at your state transport office
- Arrange CTP insurance: Competitive — buy a Green Slip from 6 approved insurers
- Get car insurance — comprehensive, third party property, or third party fire & theft
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is stamp duty on a car in NSW?
3% up to $45,000, then 5% over $45,000
Do I need a roadworthy to buy a car?
For used cars, most states require a roadworthy/safety certificate before transferring registration. New cars from dealers don't need one.
What's a PPSR check?
A Personal Property Securities Register check ($2) tells you if the car is stolen, written off, or has finance owing. Always do this before buying a used car.
What Changed
Apr 2026
Content verified for all states