Jonny,

Given your good early start, and some of your "Indian-style" posts, I am not sure if you are just kidding?

Anyway, I suggest that your main goal is to get a car to Melbourne that can drive 30 km at an average speed of 50 kph. NO compromises on this one!

Otherwise:

Panic now, rather than later.

Second-hand tyres are fine.

Bodywork can be made from plywood (seriously, it can be better than CF).

The finished car does NOT have to be pretty, or superlight (too late for these now, and they DO NOT matter).

Get the guy who always has new girlfriends to do Presentation.

Get the guy who loves telling jokes to do Design.

I don't have a clue about Cost.

Keep the whole Team well-lubricated, but not while driving.

Good luck!

Z