Automotive

Cheaper car registration for more historic and classic vehicles

From July, owners of historic or left-hand drive vehicles 25 years or older can access reduced car registration fees under the conditional registration scheme.

The State Government is expanding the conditional registration scheme and delivering a grant program to support historic and classic car clubs across the state, in a big win for motoring enthusiasts and classic car lovers.

From 1 July 2022, owners of historic or left-hand drive vehicles 25 years or older can access reduced car registration fees under the conditional registration scheme. Previously, vehicles had to be 30 years or older.

This is great news for historic vehicle owners, with more South Australians now eligible for cheaper car registration as the scheme expands to include vehicles manufactured before 1997, rather than before 1992 under the previous restriction.

As these vehicles are not the typical everyday drive for motor enthusiasts, the scheme provides an exemption from registration charges, as well as a discount on third party insurance, and reduced emergency services and lifetime support scheme levies.

The scheme delivers great savings for historic and left-hand drive vehicle owners, with the average 12-month registration cost of $85, an approximate saving of $600 as compared to full registration fees.

To be eligible, owners must be a financial member of an approved motor vehicle club, keep a log of each trip, and not hire out or be paid a fee for the use of the vehicle.

The scheme allows owners to drive their historic vehicle within South Australia up to 90 days during any 12-month registration period, providing ample opportunity for leisurely drives and exhibition at classic car events and festivals.

Support also extends to car clubs across the state, with the first round of funding under a new $2 million grant program to open later this year to assist clubs with operating costs.

The current conditional registration scheme was established by the former Labor Government in 2017.

Treasurer Stephen Mullighan MP says “The State Government is committed to supporting a vibrant motorsport and car community across our state.

“The expansion of conditional registration to include vehicles 25 years and older will encourage more classic car lovers to enjoy their pride and joy out on the road. This reduced fee encourages owners to keep this fleet of classic and special vehicles on the road, whereas otherwise it might not be an affordable option.

“This is not just welcome news for car owners and the 220 SA motoring clubs across the state, but a boost for the economy and jobs – particularly in the broader car and events industry. From panel beaters and mechanics to hospitality and event operators – everyone’s a winner. We expect this change to continue the boom in car club membership started by Labor in 2017, as we preserve South Australia’s proud motoring history.”

For more information on the conditional registration scheme, please visit www.service.sa.gov.au.

More News

To Top