Transferring number plates.

[manwell]

I heard something on the weekend and i just wanted to check if it is true.
We all know now that the RTA charges an annual fee for any customised number plate nowdays. Those with existing plates dont get charged the fee.
For instance, say when i got my first car i got numberplates with my initals and year of birth. eg. DJ-1975
I payed a one off fee for those when i got them back in 1995 or whenever. I think it was something like $210.
Now days if you want a number plate like that the RTA charge an annual fee. Those still with plates bought before they brought in the new fees in dont have to pay the fees though.

Well on the weekend i heard a friend of a friend who was in this situation and had personalised plates and hasnt had to pay the annual fee. But they just bought a new car and wanted to swap the plates to their ones and they were told if they swap the plates to another car, that the annual fee will now kick in.
Is this correct?
I thought us who have had the plates for years actually bought the plates. If so, dont we own those plates?
What right do the RTA now have to start charging us for them?
I hope this isnt correct and its just a chinese whisper thats far from the truth, but i wouldnt put it past the dodgy RTA.
Anyone know the real answer?