Is camping worth it in Australia?

Alright so I haven't left yet but i'm planning to spend roughly 6 months to a year backpacking the coast, starting in brisbane and working clockwise. I'm also going by myself and have not a very good idea of what to expect, as I have never done any solo traveling before. I'm trying to figure out if it will be worth the cost and extra weight on my pack for me to buy a tent and a mattress. Are there a lot of campsites around Australia? Is it worth wile to do this or should I just stick to the hostels? Any information in regards to this would be greatly appreciated.

A couple friends of mine camped through Australia and really enjoyed it - Except that TWICE they were robbed!

They had a great time otherwise, but of course you can't protect your tent when you're away from in. Someone actually went in their tent while they were away just a few minutes, and they had their passports stolen too. Not fun.

Anyways - Not to scare you or anything, the same thing happens in hostels. But if you're on a real tight budget, camping is probably worth it.

Some friends of mine Went over and just bought a van to travel in.

Thats a good idea too. Not sure how much cheaper it would work out to be though? Gas is expensive, plus I dunno how easy it is to just by an old car there (like insurance and stuff), unless one of your friend's was a resident?

Actually, I do remember hearing once about a company that would let you buy an old car, and then re-sell it back to them when you're done. Kind of like renting.

yeah, i'm considering doing that as well.

As far as buying a car, make sure it has rego, if it does not have rego (registration through the department of transport) you will have to get it road worthy. They look at everything, breaks, tires, etc. If it has rego you don't need to worry about it.
It also depends where you buy your car. Most people buy in a state and sell it in the same state because of registration issues. If you buy your car in QLD , most likely nobody from another state will buy it except maybe in WA.
Cars are expensive and you have to consider that you will be doing all the driving, not much fun when you pull long drives. Many backpackers use the great bus system and trains but of course it is somewhat limited to where you can go.
Camping without a car? Nah, for sure not, especially for 6 months. The cost of hostels is between 16 and 25 bucks a night where campsites you pay per spot so about 18-23. And if you find yourself in a national park there are additional fees. Unless you have somebody else to camp with I don't recommend it.
As a solo traveler Australia is great, no worries and you will meet lots of people.