How to Buy a Used Car in Australia – 2025 Guide to CarSales & Gumtree
Buying a used car in Australia can be a smart decision—especially for international students, working holiday makers, or new residents who want to explore the country or simply need a reliable way to get around. In this post, we’ll guide you through the best platforms for buying second-hand vehicles, what to check before you purchase, and how to register your car and get insured in 2025.
🚗 Best Websites to Find Used Cars in Australia
1. CarSales (carsales.com.au)
-
Australia’s most popular platform for buying both new and used cars
-
Allows you to filter by make, model, mileage, price, year, and more
-
Listings from both dealerships and private sellers
✅ Pros: Trusted platform, detailed listings, professional interface
⚠️ Cons: Dealer listings may be more expensive than private sellers
2. Gumtree (gumtree.com.au)
-
A classifieds site similar to Craigslist
-
Primarily private sellers—more room for negotiation
-
Great for low-budget options and local pickup
✅ Pros: Lower prices, potential for bargaining
⚠️ Cons: Less regulation, inspect carefully to avoid scams
💰 Price Ranges & Car Suggestions (2025)
| Budget | Recommended Cars | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AUD $2,000–$4,000 | Toyota Corolla (2005–2010) | Cheap starter for backpackers/students |
| AUD $5,000–$7,000 | Mazda 3, Honda Civic | Reliable, easy to maintain |
| AUD $8,000–$12,000 | Hyundai i30, Toyota Camry | Good for families or daily commuting |
| AUD $13,000+ | Subaru Forester, RAV4 | Ideal for long drives, camping trips |
🔍 Mileage, service history, and roadworthy condition matter more than the year.
🧾 Checklist Before Buying
-
REGO (Vehicle Registration) – Make sure it's valid and not expired
-
RWC (Roadworthy Certificate) – Required for transfers in most states
-
Service History – Regular maintenance records are a big plus
-
Odometer Reading – Average annual mileage in Australia is ~15,000 km
-
VIN Check – Verify accident or theft history
-
Condition of tyres & brakes – Expensive to replace
🔄 After Purchase: What You Must Do
-
Transfer Registration
-
Required within 14 days in most states
-
Done via state-specific transport authority (e.g., Service NSW, VicRoads)
-
Fees range from AUD $30–$60
-
-
CTP Insurance (Compulsory Third Party)
-
Mandatory and linked to registration
-
Covers injury liability in accidents
-
-
Optional Comprehensive Insurance
-
Covers your own damages or theft
-
Strongly recommended, especially for beginners
-
❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Buying a car without RWC – leads to extra time and cost
-
Ignoring REGO status – unregistered vehicles can't be driven
-
Skipping VIN checks – risk of buying a stolen or damaged car
-
Rushing into a “too cheap” deal without inspection
🏁 Conclusion
Getting a used car in Australia is not too complicated if you follow the right steps. Whether you're looking for a car to travel along the East Coast or just need something for your daily commute, platforms like CarSales and Gumtree offer plenty of options. Just remember to inspect carefully, check documentation, and complete the legal process for registration and insurance.
Drive safe, and happy exploring!
