I sold my HQ van in 1984 with it's original plates (LYJ 334) intact.
The next owner surrendered the plates and fitted a personalised set.
The originals "lapsed" (VICROADS-speak) in the system for 28 years until I came along and requested that plates be re-activated for replacement on the original vehicle.

Therefore I will be able to get the van back to it's original as-new format, including the original number plates (and it only cost me $295!!)

Cheers

Bruce