Buying a used car and learning to drive on the left in Brisbane

I bought a 2016 Toyota Hilux with 180,000 km for 28,500 dollars. It has been reliable.

Transfer and insurance

We completed the transfer of registration at a transport centre. I paid the transfer fee and stamp duty (a few hundred dollars based on the price).

For insurance, the CTP only covers injuries to people. I added comprehensive insurance for 1,450 dollars a year. As a new driver in Australia with no local history, I had to pay more. My Polish no-claims letter helped with one insurer.

Driving differences

• Speed cameras are everywhere, including mobile cameras. Fines are high and include demerit points
• Roundabouts go clockwise
• Wildlife: kangaroos at dawn and dusk on the edge of the city are a real danger
• Toll roads in Brisbane use electronic tags. I set up an account so I do not get fines
• Fuel prices change daily. Apps show the cheapest station

Costs per year

• Registration: around 900 dollars
• Insurance: 1,450 dollars
• Fuel: around 3,800 dollars
• Tolls: 1,200 dollars
• Servicing: 700 dollars

That is around 8,000 dollars a year, plus the purchase price. For my work it is necessary, but if you live and work close to the city centre, you can manage with public transport and the occasional rental.

My advice

Do the PPSR check, get the inspection and do not rush. There are many good used cars in Brisbane, and many that look good but have problems.