You've passed your driver's test, you've got your licence and now it’s time to purchase your first car. There are a few things you need to consider before you get behind the wheel.

New Cars

If you’re buying a new car, check its safety rating on the ANCAP website. Cars with a five star rating provide much better protection in the event of a crash, compared to those with a lower star rating.

Used Cars

For some novice drivers, a second-hand car is a more viable way of getting on the road. The Used Car Safety Ratings Buyer's Guide lists ‘Safe Picks’ that are not only safe for you, but safe for other road users as well.
 

High powered vehicles

There are no power-to-weight vehicle restrictions for novice drivers.
A report from the Curtin-Monash Accident Research Centre found that only a very small number (0.2%) of serious crashes involved young drivers in high performance vehicles.
Following consideration of the report, Government announced that power-to-weight restrictions would not be enforced.