Advice for first boat?

[Benzeenees]

Wow thanks for all this information guys, blown away by all the feedback This is all excellent to know, I'm still undecided on whether I'll go second hand or new, but I'm ready to start looking around now I have a bit of an idea of what I'm after. I'll definitely be getting a license regardless of the size/speed of the boat though, can't be too careful when it comes to safety and I'm sure there'll be plenty of useful information I'll learn

I wasn't suggesting that you don't get a licence - you just don't need one to get started if you stay under 10 knots (about 19 kph). To get a licence you need to do a course (can be done online thru NSW Maritime for a nominal fee), pass a multiple choice test (when I did the course it included trial test questions) and provide evidence of practical experience. You can fill in a log book, but you will need to do at least 3 trips with an experienced skipper. That's why you might want to consider waiting to get your licence until after you've got some experience - either in your own boat or someone else's.

Or you can pay to do a commercial course.

[Dezmo]

I'm with some of the earlier posts.

4.2 ish metre tinny, tiller steer, brand new, unpainted, the deeper style (ala quintrex dory), 30-40hp motor, go for the wider gunnels if you can. I think that basic tinnies sell for too much second hand and that there is better value and peace of mind if you go with a brand spanker.