If you had to put the insurance in parents name then make sure you do it right. I know of a few people who have done it and you must be careful you don't get caught out or no insurance after an accident.
The vehicle must be registered in the same name as the insured. Put the youngest person on as a regular driver and tell 'em its always garaged and got an alarm (only if it has hehe

)
Your premium will be slightly higher than your dads etc but will still be cheaper than 3.5k
You will also have a higher excess if you have an accident when you are driving $1000 to $2000 for under 25.
But, you will automatically get your dad's No Claim Bonus and protectection(if he has any).
Dont get caught out. It is his car not yours, you just drive it, probably best if you say he gave it to you as a gift.
As for the cops, well they
will give you a hard time if you get pulled over doing something wrong in "Dad's car" so be aware of this.
Better than 4k for insurance though.
I don't recommend doin this unless you must....
I reckon insurance companies make too much money.....
4k a year, thats a new FTO every 4 years, give it to me and I'll insure you for that much.
Unless the car is written off a normal accident will only cost about 4 grand (if it is your fault)