Yes, you can absolutely buy a car with cash in New South Wales (NSW). It's a straightforward process, but "cash" in this context means physical banknotes, and there are important legal and practical steps to follow, primarily involving anti-money laundering regulations. The key is that any cash transaction of $10,000 AUD or more must be reported to the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) by the dealer. For private sales, this limit still applies, placing the reporting responsibility on the buyer and seller.
The process involves agreeing on a price with the seller (dealer or private), then physically providing the cash. A licensed motor dealer will have strict procedures for handling large cash sums and will complete the necessary paperwork. The most critical document is the Proof of Purchase receipt, which must be detailed and signed by both parties. This receipt is your legal proof of ownership and is essential for the next step: transferring registration.
You must submit the completed Notice of Disposal (if buying privately) or the dealer-provided paperwork, along with your proof of purchase, to Service NSW to transfer the vehicle's registration into your name. It's highly recommended to conduct a registration check (e.g., using the Service NSW app) before paying to ensure there are no outstanding debts or encumbrances on the vehicle. While paying cash avoids finance checks and interest payments, the main considerations are the safety of carrying a large sum of money and the legal requirement to report it.
| Aspect | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Legal Limit | Cash transactions of $10,000 AUD or more must be reported to AUSTRAC. |
| Dealer Sales | Licensed dealers are required to report the transaction; they will handle the paperwork. |
| Private Sales | The buyer and seller are jointly responsible for reporting the cash sale to AUSTRAC. |
| Essential Document | A detailed, signed Proof of Purchase Receipt is mandatory for registration transfer. |
| Pre-Purchase Check | Always conduct a free registration check via the Service NSW app to verify no money is owed on the car. |
| Safety | Carrying large amounts of cash presents a significant security risk. |
| Alternative | A bank cheque is a secure and widely accepted alternative to physical cash. |
