How QLD Plans to Increase Prices for Licenses and Rego

by Dylan Anderson

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Founder @ CarExplore

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May 12, 2025

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3 min read

A 12-month freeze on government fees and charges in Queensland will officially come to an end on 1 July 2025, marking the return of annual increases to costs such as car registration, driver’s licences, and fines.

The freeze was introduced by the previous Labor government as part of the 2024 state budget to help ease cost-of-living pressures. It included a 20% cut to car registration fees beginning 16 September 2024—an election-year measure aimed at winning support. However, Labor failed to secure another term after nine years in office.

What’s Changing

The incoming Liberal National government has confirmed a 3.4% increase across most fees and charges from July 1. This is slightly higher than Brisbane’s annual CPI of 2.7% and the national rate of 2.4%.

Key changes include:

Driver’s licence (five-year): increasing from $198.35 to $205.09
Most government service fees: rising by 3.4%

Despite the general increase, car registration will remain discounted until 16 September 2025. After this date, rego fees will also rise by 3.4%.

Currently, registration for a four-cylinder vehicle in Queensland costs $708, which includes compulsory third-party insurance and traffic improvement fees.

How Queensland Compares Nationally

Queensland’s rego fees are not the lowest in Australia but remain competitive:

NSW: $718 for a four-cylinder vehicle (includes rego + motor vehicle tax)
Victoria: $906 including CTP
South Australia: $660 including CTP
Western Australia: $364 (for vehicles under 1300kg)

Treasurer’s Statement

Treasurer David Janetzki said the increases were part of broader efforts to restore the state’s financial position:

“The Crisafulli government is working tirelessly to repair the state’s finances after a decade of Labor’s fiscal vandalism and that includes restoring respect for taxpayers’ money.”

While the 3.4% rise aligns with historical inflationary adjustments, the move comes as households continue to manage broader economic pressures.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For official updates, consult the Queensland Government website or Department of Transport and Main Roads.