Vehicle and Traffic (Driver Licensing and Vehicle Registration) Regulations 2021

The Registrar may issue a reference number for a vehicle if – the vehicle does not have an identification number; or the existing identification number for the vehicle – appears to have been altered or defaced; or is the same as for another vehicle; or has been assigned in error; or has been determined by the Registrar not to be a valid identification number; or there is more than one existing identification number for the vehicle; or the Registrar believes that it is reasonable in the circumstances to issue a new reference number for the vehicle.

If a reference number is issued under subregulation (1) in respect of a vehicle, an applicant for registration, or the registered operator, of the vehicle must ensure that – the reference number is stamped or displayed, in the vehicle in respect of which it has been issued, in accordance with the requirements specified by the Registrar; and any previous number stamped or displayed in the vehicle is marked, or obscured, in accordance with the requirements specified by the Registrar. Fine not exceeding 10 penalty units.

If a reference number issued in respect of a vehicle is altered or defaced without the Registrar's written approval, the registered operator of the vehicle must, within 14 days after the alteration or defacement, give the Registrar written notice of the alteration or defacement. Fine not exceeding 10 penalty units.