You have to get approval before modifying?

I've read on here (Surf & Swoosh, Helbus, Brad, Wes etc) that you Aussies have to get permission before you modify your dubs.
Would some one please clarify what this concerns please? ie how you go about it
Also what exactly is your "rego" inspections?

In the UK we just do it (mods, including engines, brakes) and take it for an MoT (Ministry of Transport) test - basically if it doesn't fall apart test.... then we have to declare it to our insurers *gulp*

Do you have to get insured for your cars (as we do in the UK) and get a Tax disk (Road fund) or does your "rego" cover this, as in Germany etc?

Sorry for the ignorant Q's (livin' & learning)
Thanks

Depends on what your doing, minor mods such as changing wheels, sunroof, fitting a different engine that was an option for the car etc you don't need to get permission or even have it proffesionally certified as long as your modifications meet the rules (Australian Design Rules and state laws).

For major mods, (subaru to vw engine conversion, or beach buggy for example) you don't HAVE to get permission first, however it is very wise to do so. You have to get major modifications certified by a mechanical engineer appointed by the RTA (New South Wales state) in order to get it registered for the road. Since a lot of rules can be read slightly different from person to person, it is in your best interest to discuss your mods with them before you start, just in case you interpret the rules different.

The registration process varies from state to state, but in New South Wales our yearly rego inspection is basically a simple 10minute test that determines whether the car is roadworthy, they inspect things such as tyres, lights, horn, suspension, steering play and the like. Also take the car for a quick spin to test the brakes. You then need to buy insurance to protect against personel injuries. Then you can get your rego which goes towards road funds etc.

The insurance required for rego does not cover property damage, so if you crash into a fararri and its your fault, you will have to cough up the costs for both cars. Most people take out either comprehensive (full) insurance which covers anything you hit as well as your own car as well as theft, vandalism etc. If you have a cheap car you can get a cheaper third party insurance which doesnt cover your car, but covers anything you may hit. I think thats about it.

There is two insurances

Third party - Injury (Injury to people) It is a no fault coverage for any person (pedestrians included) injured in any way anywhere by any form of transport. Car, bus, train, truck etc. This covers all people, however it is paid by the owners of registered vehicles. It is different price based on vehicle type, size, living area etc. If you don't pay it and you injure a person in an accident, then they can sue you directly for injuries sustained. If you have paid, then you have an insurance. If you are drunk or drugged, then again you are not covered. It is compulsory for all registered vehicles.

Third party - Property (damage to other property). Covers the cost of damage you may cause. Again you can be not covered if drunk, unlicenced or vehicle is in a dangerous or illegal condition.