I would say as a complete beginner go for Used or the cheapest new bass you can find. But the main thing is to try before you buy, and get something that feels nice to play. My first bass when i was 15 or 16 was a Washburn XB-100, nice slim neck, quite light and a funky mettalic purple colour.
I would say that for an absolute beginner that basses like Squier are not absolutley necessary, don't buy a bass because of the name on the headstock, buy it because it feels good, sounds good to your ears and is in your price range.
I've been semi pro for almost 8 years now and i play a budget bass, my 5 string Westfield. I love it. True, i have made a couple of mods to it (pickups and tuners), but i bought a bass that when i tried it it felt and sounded good to me.
Just my 2c