You open the reminder email, roll your eyes, and think, "Already? Didn't I just pay this?"
Rego always seems to sneak up at the worst time. But before you hit renew and get to work emptying your wallet, it’s worth running through a quick checklist. A few minutes now could save you cash or even prompt a bigger decision about whether your car’s still worth holding onto.
Here are a few things to do before you commit:
Check your CTP insurance
Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance (also known as your green slip in New South Wales) is a must-have for every registered vehicle in Australia. It covers injuries to other people if you’re involved in an accident.
In New South Wales, you’ll need to purchase CTP insurance separately before you can renew your rego. It’s easy to let it auto-renew, but prices can vary quite a bit between providers. To make sure you’re not overpaying, use the Green Slip Price Comparison Tool from the NSW Government.
In most other states and territories, including Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the ACT, CTP is usually bundled with your rego. Even so, it’s still worth checking what’s included, which insurer you’re with, and whether any policy updates or changes have been introduced since your last renewal.
No matter where you are, understanding your CTP coverage helps you avoid surprises and make sure you’re getting fair value for what you’re paying.
Does your car need a safety check?
In New South Wales, most vehicles over five years old need a safety inspection, commonly called a pink slip, before they can be re-registered. It’s best to book this early, just in case your mechanic finds something that needs fixing. Without it, your rego won’t go through.
Other states and territories have different rules. In Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia, safety inspections are usually only required when transferring ownership or registering an unregistered vehicle. But it’s always worth checking. Especially if your rego has lapsed or you’ve made modifications.
Here’s where to find the official info for your state or territory:
• NSW – Service NSW
• VIC – VicRoads
• QLD – Queensland Government - TMR
• WA – WA Department of Transport
• SA – SA Government - EzyReg
• TAS – Tasmania - Transport
• NT – NT Government - MVR
• ACT – Access Canberra
If you’re not sure whether your car needs a check, a quick visit to your local authority’s website can save you from unexpected delays. Better safe than sorry when it comes to rego.
Are your details still current?
It sounds basic, but it’s easy to forget to update your address or remove a trailer or second vehicle you no longer own. Make sure everything linked to your registration is still accurate, and cancel anything you don’t need so you’re not paying extra for nothing.
Review your rego period and concessions
Depending on your state, you might be able to choose between three, six, or twelve-month rego periods. If you’re managing a tight budget, a shorter term could make things easier. On the other hand, paying for a full year might save you a bit overall.
Also check whether you're eligible for any discounts or concessions — some states offer savings for pensioners, veterans, or electric vehicle owners. And in NSW, you might qualify for a toll relief rebate if you’re racking up regular motorway travel.
Seize the moment to check on your car
You’re already thinking about your car, so it’s a good time to give it a quick once-over. Check your tyres, wipers, lights, and oil levels. If your service is overdue, book it in. A bit of basic attention now could save you from a breakdown or a bigger bill later.
Alright, that concludes our tips! Yes, of course, Rego is a drag, but it doesn’t have to be a mindless chore. Think of it as a built-in checkpoint. A moment to take stock of what you’re driving, what you’re paying, and whether everything’s still working as it should. It’s your chance to make sure you’re covered, your details are current, and you’re not forking out more than you need to.
A few quick checks now can save you money, time, and plenty of headaches down the line.
Still worth registering?
If the cost of rego, insurance, and another round of repairs is making you second-guess things, you’re not alone. Sometimes it’s not just about scraping through a roadworthy check; it’s about whether it still makes sense to keep spending money just to keep the car on the road.
If getting it through rego feels like more trouble than it’s worth, it might be time to look at other options. At easyauto123, there are plenty of late-model used cars that are roadworthy, ready to go, and could end up costing you less in the long run. Worth a look if your current ride is starting to feel like a bit of a money pit.
