stamp duty sa car Page 8958

In South Australia, stamp duty on a car (technically “vehicle registration duty”) is charged on the dutiable value.

The rates are tiered: 1% on the first $1,000, then 2% on $1,001–$2,000, then 3% on $2,001–$3,000, and 4% on any amount above $3,000 — which equals $60 plus 4% of the value over $3,000.

Example time: a $20,000 car pays about $740 ($60 + 4% of $17,000), while a $50,000 car lands roughly $1,940.

It applies to new and used cars (dealer or private), based on the higher of purchase price or market value, and it’s on top of transfer fees, rego and CTP.

Yes, it stings, but at least it funds the paperwork that lets your new pride and joy legally exist.