History of Plates

1921

Queensland Number plates were first introduced in 1921. The classic Q Plates featured a bold black Q, with white numerals on a black background. The black and white plates were simple, striking and most importantly - standardised.

An original Q style plate. To the left side of the plate is a black letter Q on a white background, the rest of the plate has white text on a black background. The rest of the combination reads 4 5 6 7 3

1955

Embossed plates were released in 1955. Combinations were now available in a 3-letter, 3-number format. As plates rolled off the assembly line, combinations needed more diversification due to demand. 1955 also brought the introduction of the diamond separator, a subtle addition to any ‘50s housewife’s Cadillac.

A 1950s plate with white text on a black background. The letters Q L D are in the center top of the plate in a small font, with the combination in a bigger font below. The combination reads N A A (diamond separator) 0 0 0

1976-1977

The ‘70s brought afros, polyester and disco. Plates continued to evolve as well, with the introduction of green text. Queensland also introduced their sunny “QUEENSLAND-SUNSHINE STATE” slogan, to help show their state pride! Colourful dealer plates were also introduced, with a different colour issued each year. Ranging from purple to orange to violet, the dealer plates marked the introduction of colour to Queensland’s number plate landscape! Colourful “full permit” plates were also introduced for farm machinery travelling on Queensland roads.

A 1970s plate with green text on a white background. The combination reads 9 9 9 (diamond separator) G J K. Underneath the combination in a smaller font is the slogan 'Queensland - Sunshine State'.

A 1970s dealer plate with white text on an orange background. The letters Q L D are in the center top of the plate in a small font, with the combination in a bigger font below. The combination reads P 4 (diamond separator) 0 3 9 9.

1979

Personalised Plates were introduced with the dawn of the ‘80s! Some of the first available plates were Queensland themed and came with depictions of the Great Barrier Reef, Tropical Queensland and the Outback. Early personalised plates were also available in limited colour options. When Personalised Plates Queensland was established in 1998, a creative array of plates began to develop until reaching the 250 designs available today.

An early Personalised Plate. The plate has a black background, with a bright yellow border around the edge. To the left side of the plate is an illustration of a palm tree, with empty space to the right where the combination would be. Underneath the combination space is the slogan 'Tropical Queensland' in a small, bright yellow font.

1980

To celebrate hosting the 1982 Commonwealth Games and 1988 World Expo, Queensland released exclusive Commonwealth Games and World Expo number plates, used exclusively by event officials.

2001

After twenty-four years of green text, Queenslanders were ready for a change. Maroon text was introduced in 2001, with the addition of the “QUEENSLAND-THE SMART STATE” slogan. The plate were retired in 2013.

A standard issue Queensland plate, with maroon text on a white background. The combination reads 0 0 0 (diamond separator) H A A. Underneath the combination in a smaller font is the slogan 'Queensland - The Smart State'.

2014

PPQ‘s range of plates now encompasses over 250 different potential designs and formats. Some of the most popular ranges include the happy-go-lucky colour range, the robust rugby NRL range, and the brand new 3D plate. Plates can express anything, from an event to an inside joke to your nickname.

A 3D style personalised plate, with chrome effect text on a black background. The letters Q L D are in the center top of the plate in a small font, with the combination in a bigger font below. The combination reads R I M 5 5

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