What is happening to the Special Number Plates business?
Roads and Traffic Authority is investigating the benefits to the community of forming a partnership with a private business (known as a ‘concession’) to operate the existing Special Number Plates business.
The owner of the concession would be responsible for marketing and sales of the plates.
This is not core business for Roads and Traffic Authority.
Why is Roads and Traffic Authority considering a Concession for the Special Number Plates Business?
Transferring this business to the private sector means taxpayers will not be exposed to the existing commercial risks and the Government is able to focus its resources on core services and infrastructure.
When will these changes take place?
Changes to legislation are expected to be introduced during the Spring Session of Parliament.
Where will the revenue from the Special Number Plate Business go?
The revenue will be shared between the government and the new business partner. The share going to the government will continue to pay for safer roads in NSW.
Will Roads and Traffic Authority still be responsible for registering my vehicle?
Yes. Roads and Traffic Authority will continue to regulate vehicle registration and standards. Customers will benefit through more convenient distribution channels, for example direct delivery of plates, and the potential for new product innovation.
Roads and Traffic Authority will regulate the new owner to ensure customer privacy and the integrity and security of the vehicle registration system is maintained.
Can I keep my General Issue Plates?
You can keep your existing Yellow general issue plates. Yellow general issue plates will continue to be supplied and managed by Roads and Traffic Authority registries. There will never be a mandatory requirement to purchase Special Number Plates.
Will General Issue Plates cost more?
The charges for yellow general issue plates will not be affected by the cost of Special Number Plates. Prices for number plates and registration charges have always been subject to reasonable change over the years, and Roads and Traffic Authority will continue to provide a basic fairly priced and accessible number plate option for vehicle registration.
Do I have to do anything to make sure I can keep my existing plates?
No, nothing is required of existing customers.
Will I have to pay more for my Special Number Plates?
The pricing of Special Number Plates would no longer be controlled by Roads and Traffic Authority, but any private business partnership would be subject to laws about competition and fair trading.
Can all vehicle operators have Special Number Plates?
No. There are a number of categories of vehicles that you are not allowed to put new Special Number Plates on. These include conditionally registered vehicles, public passenger vehicles or FIRS vehicles.
Who will own the Special Number Plates?
All number plates are currently, and will continue to be, owned by Roads and Traffic Authority.
Will there be new styles of number plates available?
Decisions about new styles will be made through agreement between the business operator and Roads and Traffic Authority
Can customers sell the Special Number Plates they already have?
The current conditions for trade and sale of Special Number Plates will continue unless other notification is given.
Can I keep my SNPs without putting them on a registered vehicle?
Yes. For a fee, you may store the plates at a registry or in any facility provided by the SNP business under its contractual obligations. In NSW it is illegal to keep any number plates in your own possession (for example at home on the wall) or on an unregistered vehicle.
Which plate styles will still be available after the sale?
Plate styles change over time and this is one of the attractive features of Special Number Plates. If you would like to be kept informed of new number plate products, check the myPlates website: www.myplates.com.au
How can I receive information about new SNP products?
Go to the myPlates website: www.myplates.com.au
Will a private business be able to access my personal information?
The SNP business will be subject to the same strict privacy and personal information laws which apply to Roads and Traffic Authority. For more information on the Roads and Traffic Authority’s privacy responsibilities and your rights contact the NSW Office of the Privacy Commissioner: www.privacy.gov.au or phone 1300 363 992.
Will the SNP business be able to use my personal information for advertising and marketing?
You may choose to receive promotional material about SNP products by registering. If you do not consent to receive promotional material, you will not be contacted with SNP promotions.