These are the criteria we use to identify a vehicle as abandoned
We consider a vehicle to be abandoned if it is:
- unregistered (check registration on the VicRoads website)
- registered but has not been moved for more than two months
- deemed not roadworthy by Victoria Police or VicRoads.
We cannot remove vehicles that are:
- on roads managed by VicRoads – report to VicRoads
- on private property such as shopping centre car parks – report to the property owner
- dumped in water – report to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action
- stolen – report to Victoria Police.
Report an abandoned vehicle
You need the following details to report an abandoned vehicle:
- Vehicle registration (if known)
- Location of vehicle (street and street number)
- Description of vehicle (colour, make and model)
- Photographs.
What happens next?
We will investigate the matter. Please note that this process can take up to 60 days depending on if the vehicle is registered or not.
The investigation process includes:
- verifying if the vehicle is registered or reported stolen
- trying to contact the last known registered owner
- monitoring the vehicle while we wait for a reply.
If there is no action, we will tow the vehicle.
Residents may park their vehicles for longer durations compared to other vehicles. For example, if their personal vehicle is not their primary form of transport during holidays.
We consider these circumstances when conducting our investigation. If a vehicle is registered and we verify that the owner lives in the area, we generally do not consider it to be abandoned.
Dangerous vehicles will be removed, and police involved if necessary.
You have received a notice regarding your vehicle
Please contact us immediately if you have found a notice on your vehicle.
We issue a notice to the vehicle if it is unregistered or if we believe it is abandoned. This advises the owner that they must move the vehicle by the due date on the notice. If the owner fails to contact us or move the vehicle, it may be towed.
Releasing an impounded vehicle
If your vehicle has been impounded, we can release it after you have:
- provided proof of ownership
- paid the required fee ($460 release fee plus $25 for each day the vehicle is stored).
All vehicles are towed by Nationwide Towing and Transport. Please call 13 48 69.
Vehicles can be retrieved from 1/221 Browns Road, Noble Park 3174.
If you do not claim your vehicle within 14 days of it being impounded, we have the authority to sell, destroy or donate the vehicle. This includes anything in, on or attached to the vehicle.