Understanding the Legalities: Selling Your Scrap Car in Canberra
Legal Requirements for Selling a Scrap Car in Canberra
Before you hand over the keys, you must comply with ACT regulations to avoid fines or liability.
1. Notice of Disposal
When you sell or scrap an ACT‑registered vehicle, you must submit a Notice of Disposal to Access Canberra within 14 days. This can be done:
Online via the Access Canberra portal
By post to PO Box 582, Dickson ACT 2602
In person at any Access Canberra Service Centre
Keep a copy for your records to prove you’re no longer responsible for infringements or registration fees.
2. Transfer or Cancellation of Registration
Selling with registration: Leave number plates on the car; buyer can transfer registration and claim any unused registration refund.
Selling without registration: Cancel registration first, surrender plates, then sell “as is.” You’ll receive a refund for unused registration and MAI insurance.
3. Written‑Off Vehicle Notification
If your car is a statutory write‑off (beyond repair) or economic write‑off, it must be recorded on the national Written‑Off Vehicle Register (WOVR). Insurers or authorised persons notify Access Canberra within seven days of write‑off classification.
4. Proof of Ownership
You must prove you have the right to dispose of the vehicle. Acceptable documents include:
Registration certificate (even if expired)
Receipt/invoice for private sale (hand‑written receipts are acceptable if they include VIN, sale price
