What Happens To Abandoned Cars In Melbourne?

Ever wondered what happens to abandoned cars in Melbourne? Abandoned vehicles aren’t just an eyesore; they pose environmental hazards and take up valuable space in the city. 

Whether you’ve spotted a rusty old car in your neighbourhood or have inherited a vehicle, understanding how these cars are dealt with can save you from potential fines or legal troubles. 

In this article, we’ll explain how Melbourne handles abandoned cars, the steps to take if you find one on your property and the role of businesses like ours.

Let’s Get Straight to the Point

Abandoned cars in Melbourne are a common issue, posing safety risks and environmental concerns. 

A car is considered abandoned if left in a public area for over 90 days. If you find one on your property, you should report it to the authorities, inspect it safely, and follow legal steps for disposal. 

Services like ours can assist with car removal and ensure environmentally friendly recycling. Vehicles are often abandoned due to costly repairs, towing fees, or being involved in criminal activity. 

Always follow local regulations to avoid legal complications.

When Is A Car Considered Abandoned In Melbourne?

1. Definition of Abandoned Cars in Melbourne

Before you assume a vehicle is abandoned, it’s important to know Melbourne’s regulations. A car is considered abandoned if left in a publicly accessible area for over 90 days without being moved. 

This applies to vehicles like:

• Cars
• Motorbikes
• Trucks
• Trailers
• Vans
• Buses

However, not every parked car is deemed abandoned. A legally parked, registered, and insured car that hasn’t been moved for a while isn’t considered abandoned. 

It’s essential to check with local authorities to avoid unnecessary legal trouble.

2. Why Abandoned Cars Are a Problem

Abandoned cars aren’t just an inconvenience; they can cause:

• Traffic congestion
• Safety risks
• Environmental damage
• Wasted parking space

That’s why Melbourne enforces strict regulations for dealing with abandoned cars, ensuring they are properly managed and disposed of.

What To Do If You Find An Abandoned Car

1. Report The Vehicle To Authorities

The first step in dealing with an abandoned car is to report it to the local council or police. If available, provide details like the make, model, licence plate, and VIN number. 

This step is crucial for documenting the situation and ensuring the authorities can take action.

• Public Property: If the vehicle is on public land, the authorities will investigate and likely remove it.
• Private Property: Things get more complicated if the vehicle is on your private property. While the police can assist, you are primarily responsible for dealing with the vehicle.

2. Inspect the Vehicle Safely

Before anything else, check the vehicle safely. Confirming that it isn’t stolen or involved in illegal activity is important. 

Look for any suspicious items or signs of damage. You can also check with local authorities for CCTV footage or contact organisations like VicRoads to gather information.

3. Disposal of the Abandoned Vehicle

If you’ve reported the vehicle and the owner cannot be found, it’s time to dispose of the car. Here are the steps to follow:

• Hire a Cash for Cars company: These businesses specialise in removing old or unwanted cars and can tow away the vehicle for free.
• Keep Records: Record all steps you’ve taken. This documentation is important in case the owner resurfaces and challenges the disposal.

Following the proper channels can avoid legal complications and ensure the vehicle is disposed of lawfully.

Why Do People Abandon Cars?

1. Common Reasons for Vehicle Abandonment

It might seem strange, but there are several reasons why people abandon their cars in Melbourne:

• Too Expensive To Repair: When repairs cost more than the vehicle’s value, owners may decide it’s not worth fixing and abandon it instead.
• High Towing Costs: Cars that break down in remote areas can be costly to tow, leading some owners to leave them behind.
• Stolen or Used for Crime: Some cars are abandoned after being stolen or used in illegal activities to avoid being tracked.
• Owner Has Passed Away or Moved: In some cases, the owner may have passed away or moved without arranging the car’s removal.

Legal Steps for Dealing with Abandoned Cars in Melbourne

1. Reporting to the Authorities

If a car has been abandoned on your property, you can’t claim ownership or dispose of it immediately. Follow these steps:

• Notify the Local Council: Report the vehicle with all necessary details. The council will investigate and try to contact the owner.
• Wait for the Investigation: Authorities will give the owner a specified vehicle removal timeframe.
• Apply to VCAT: If the owner doesn’t come forward, you can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for permission to dispose of the car.
• Organise Removal: Once you have permission, arrange for the car to be towed and recycled by a licensed provider.

2. Can You Claim an Abandoned Vehicle?

No, you cannot claim ownership of a car abandoned on your property. The original owner still holds legal ownership, even if the car is unwanted or neglected. 

The car can be removed or sold only after the proper legal process is followed.

Environmentally-Friendly Disposal Of Abandoned Cars

1. The Importance of Recycling

Recycling is the most environmentally friendly way to dispose of abandoned vehicles. Many car parts can be reused or repurposed, reducing the need for new resources. 

Components like metal, batteries, and fluids can all be recycled.

2. Recycling Options in Melbourne

In Melbourne, there are several options for environmentally friendly car disposal:

• Cash for Cars services: These companies will purchase the vehicle, remove it, and ensure it’s recycled in compliance with environmental standards.
• Donations: Some organisations accept car donations, using the proceeds to fund charitable activities. Check with the Victorian Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to ensure the recycler or charity meets environmental regulations.

By choosing to recycle, you’re clearing your property and helping reduce the environmental impact of abandoned vehicles.

Conclusion

Abandoned cars in Melbourne are more than just an eyesore—they can create safety hazards, take up space, and harm the environment. 

If you encounter an abandoned vehicle, it’s important to report it to authorities, inspect it for safety, and arrange its proper disposal through licensed services like ours.

By following the right steps and complying with local regulations, you can ensure that these unwanted vehicles are dealt with responsibly, reducing their impact on your community and the environment. 

Remember to keep records of your actions to avoid future legal issues. If you’re dealing with an abandoned car, don’t hesitate to contact us to start the process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Abandoned Cars

1. When is a car considered abandoned in Melbourne?

A car is considered abandoned if left in a publicly accessible area for over 90 days without being moved.

2. What should I do if I find an abandoned car?

If the owner cannot be found, report the vehicle to local authorities, inspect it safely, and follow legal disposal steps.

3. Why do people abandon cars in Melbourne?

Common reasons include costly repairs, high towing fees, illegal activities, or the owner’s death or relocation.

4. Can I claim ownership of an abandoned car on my property?

No, you cannot claim ownership. The legal process must be followed before disposal or removal.

5. How are abandoned cars disposed of environmentally in Melbourne?

Cars can be recycled through licensed services, repurposing parts like metal, batteries, and fluids to reduce environmental impact.