bought car with outstanding finance from dealer

If you bought a car from a dealer and it still has outstanding finance (an encumbrance), the dealer must fix it—full stop.

Ask for written confirmation that the loan is being paid out immediately and verify the PPSR shows the security interest removed.

If they drag their heels, escalate in writing under Australian Consumer Law, then contact your state/territory consumer agency (e.g., Fair Trading/Consumer Affairs) or pursue a chargeback if appropriate.

Keep every scrap of paperwork, and tell your own lender/insurer—nothing motivates action like an insurer sniffing trouble.

• Do a PPSR search to confirm the encumbrance and later to confirm it’s cleared.
• Request proof of payout (payout letter/receipt from the financier).
• Set a firm deadline in writing; note you may seek a refund if title can’t be delivered clear.
• Escalate: dealer principal, then Fair Trading/Consumer Affairs, and consider tribunal action if needed.