Find previous owner of vehicle

The Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) office can't release a person's information without their permission unless the law authorises the release.

However, under the Uncollected Goods Act 2004, you can apply to find the contact details of a vehicle owner to return or dispose of an abandoned vehicle that has been left:

• on your private property
• on your property as the person responsible for repair or works on the vehicle - e.g. a mechanical workshop.

The MVR can only release contact details if the vehicle was last registered in the Northern Territory (NT).

How to apply

To apply, follow these steps:

Step 1. Complete the steps required under the Act.

Read the process on the uncollected good fact sheet on the NT Consumer Affairs website.

Step 2. Fill in the R32 request vehicle information under the Uncollected Goods Act form PDF (184.4 KB).

You will also need to provide all of the following:

• make of the vehicle
• model and body type
• engine number
• VIN/chassis/serial number
• assessment of estimated value
• time the vehicle has been in your possession
• your evidence of identity.

Step 3. Submit your application and supporting documents to the MVR by email, mail or in person.

You will also need to pay the search for last registered owner of abandoned vehicle fee.

Email

Email your application and supporting documents to mvr.infosearch@nt.gov.au.

You can pay the fee using Visa or Mastercard by calling 1300 654 628.

In person

Submit your application and supporting documents in person at an MVR office.

You can pay the fee using Visa or Mastercard, EFTPOS, cash or BasicsCard.

Mail

Send your application and supporting documents to:

Motor Vehicle Registry
GPO Box 530
Darwin NT 0801

You can pay the fee by sending your money order.

After you apply

The MVR will assess your application.

If it is approved, the MVR will provide you with the contact details of the last registered owner.