Changing the colour of your car is one of those things many people think about at least once. Maybe you’re tired of the dull grey and want something bold, like fire-red or matte black. Or perhaps you’ve scored a used car that runs like a dream but the colour just doesn’t suit your vibe. Either way, the big question pops up: is it even legal in Australia to change your car’s colour?
The short answer is yes—you absolutely can. But (and here’s the important bit), there are rules, processes, and legal responsibilities that go hand in hand with a paint job or a vinyl wrap. If you skip these, you could land yourself in hot water with the authorities, or worse, insurance companies. Let’s break it down so you’re not left guessing.
Can You Change Your Car’s Colour in Australia?
Yes, it’s legal. But the key is making sure the change is reported, documented, and compliant with road and registration laws. In other words, you can’t just repaint your car and pretend it never happened. Authorities need accurate records of your vehicle’s details, and colour is one of those identifiers.
Why? Because when your car is registered, police, insurers, and road authorities use its listed details (like make, model, VIN, and colour) to identify it. If your colour doesn’t match the records, it could raise suspicion. Imagine getting pulled over, and the officer’s database says “blue sedan” but you’re driving a “black sedan.” It’s not necessarily illegal by itself, but it looks suspicious enough that you’ll need to prove ownership.
Do You Have to Notify Anyone?
Yes, you do. Whenever you repaint or wrap your car, you must notify your state or territory’s registration authority (like VicRoads in Victoria, Service NSW, or Transport and Main Roads in Queensland).
Most of these authorities allow you to update the vehicle colour online, but sometimes you’ll need to visit in person or send a written notice. Usually, it’s a simple form where you provide your rego number, VIN, and new colour.
Here’s a quick look at what different states require:
| State / Territory | Reporting Method | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW (Service NSW) | Online or Service Centre | Within 14 days | Fines apply for delays |
| VIC (VicRoads) | Online or Phone | ASAP | No fee for colour update |
| QLD (TMR) | Online, Phone, or Office | ASAP | Required for accurate rego |
| WA (DoT) | In-person or Online | Within 14 days | New rego papers issued |
| SA (Service SA) | Online or Office | Promptly | No inspection required |
| TAS (Transport TAS) | Contact directly | Promptly | Records updated quickly |
| NT (MVR) | Phone or Office | Within 14 days | Simple process |
| ACT (Access Canberra) | Online or Office | Within 14 days | Mandatory update |
So yes—it’s not complicated, but it is compulsory.
What About Insurance?
Here’s where it gets really important. If you don’t notify your insurance provider after a colour change, you might unintentionally void your cover. Insurance policies rely on accurate details about your vehicle.
Think about it—if your car gets stolen and the police search for a silver Toyota Corolla but yours is now purple, finding it becomes trickier. Insurers may even argue you failed to disclose a material change, which could impact your payout.
So, always tell your insurer. The good news? Most insurers won’t increase your premium just because you painted your car a different colour. Unless, of course, you go with something flashy that implies higher theft risk—like neon yellow or a chrome wrap.
What Happens If You Don’t Report the Colour Change?
Honestly, you’re just asking for unnecessary headaches. Fines are possible in some states if you fail to update your details. More importantly, you risk delays with insurance claims or police checks. In extreme cases, an unreported colour change could even make your car look stolen, especially if law enforcement is comparing records.
To be fair, most people don’t get pulled up immediately for forgetting, but it’s not worth the gamble.
Key Things to Remember
- Yes, it’s legal to repaint or wrap your car.
- You must update your registration authority with the new colour.
- Inform your insurer to avoid claim issues.
- Keep it roadworthy—paint or wraps can’t obstruct lights, windows, or number plates.
So, if you’ve been daydreaming about a sleek matte black finish or a vibrant candy apple red, go for it. Just don’t forget the paperwork!
FAQs
1. Can I legally paint my car any colour in Australia?
Yes, you can choose any colour, as long as it doesn’t interfere with safety features (like reflective surfaces or number plates).
2. Do I need to pay a fee for changing my car’s colour?
Generally, no. Updating the registration records is free in most states.
3. Do I need to get my car inspected after changing its colour?
Usually not. As long as it’s just cosmetic, inspections aren’t required.
4. Will changing my car’s colour affect its resale value?
It depends. Unique colours might narrow your buyer pool, but classic finishes can sometimes boost value.
5. Can I use vinyl wrap instead of paint?
Yes, wraps are legal too, but they must be declared to your rego authority and insurer, just like paint.