Best value
Economy
City trips, 1–2 people
e.g. Toyota Yaris or similar · Petrol
4 seats · 2 bags · Automatic
Suitable for: Sealed roads and city driving
FromA$39/day
Compare car hire across Australia
Search one-way or return rentals and see what affects the total cost before you book.
Free Cancellation24/7 Customer SupportNo Hidden Charges
Compared suppliers
4.7/5Website rating
40+Suppliers compared
200+Locations
15 yrsExperience
96%Customer satisfaction
Real cost calculator
The daily rate is only the start. Add airport and driver fees, one-way charges and fuel to see what a hire will really cost.
Please note: The prices above are subject to change without prior notice, since costs vary by vehicle class, dates, supplier and season. Final prices, fees, excess and deposit are confirmed by the supplier at the time of booking, so please check the rental agreement before you pay.
Why book with us
Six things you can check for yourself on this page.
Costs shown clearly
Every cost is tagged as included, optional, pay at pickup or supplier-specific.
Dated, reviewed rules
Each state’s rules show the date they were last reviewed.
Independent comparison
Cars are compared by trip fit and total cost, not just the daily rate.
One-way made simple
Different pickup and drop-off? Any one-way charge is flagged before you book.
Rules for every state
Tolls, wildlife and unsealed-road notes for each state and territory.
Clear limits
Where we can't confirm something, we say so and point you to your rental conditions.
Popular car rental locations
Pick a city, its airport or its city centre for pick-up details, or open the list to see every location in that city.
NSWSydney
Harbour, beaches and the Blue Mountains.
52 Sydney locations
- Sydney Airport
- Western Sydney International Airport
- Sydney CBD
- Sydney City Centre
- Alexandria, Sydney
- Arncliffe, Sydney
- Artarmon, Sydney
- Bankstown, Sydney
- Blacktown, Sydney
- Brookvale, Sydney
- Burwood, Sydney
- Caringbah, Sydney
- Carlton, Sydney
- Castle Hill, Sydney
- Clyde, Sydney
- Concord, Sydney
- Croydon, Sydney
- Darlinghurst, Sydney
- Dee Why, Sydney
- Five Dock, Sydney
- Gladesville, Sydney
- Granville, Sydney
- Hornsby, Sydney
- Hurstville, Sydney
- Kings Park, Sydney
- Lidcombe town centre, Sydney
- Lidcombe, Sydney
- Liverpool, Sydney
- Macquarie Park, Sydney
- Maroubra town centre, Sydney
- Mascot town centre, Sydney
- Mascot, Sydney
- Milperra, Sydney
- Minchinbury, Sydney
- Narellan, Sydney
- North Parramatta, Sydney
- North Sydney, Sydney
- Oran Park, Sydney
- Parramatta, Sydney
- Penrith, Sydney
- Pyrmont, Sydney
- Revesby, Sydney
- Richmond Railway Station
- Ryde, Sydney
- Smithfield, Sydney
- South Windsor town centre, Sydney
- Sydney Hotel Marriott Harbour
- Sydney Waitara Railway Station
- Sydney West Ryde Railway Station
- Taren Point, Sydney
- Westmead, Sydney
- Zetland, Sydney
VICMelbourne
Laneways, the Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley.
62 Melbourne locations
- Melbourne Airport
- Melbourne Essendon Airport
- Melbourne City Centre
- Albert Park, Melbourne
- Albion, Melbourne
- Ardeer, Melbourne
- Bayswater North, Melbourne
- Bayswater, Melbourne
- Bentleigh East, Melbourne
- Blackburn, Melbourne
- Brighton, Melbourne
- Brooklyn, Melbourne
- Camberwell, Melbourne
- Campbellfield, Melbourne
- Clayton, Melbourne
- Clyde North, Melbourne
- Clyde, Melbourne
- Coburg North, Melbourne
- Coburg town centre, Melbourne
- Cranbourne, Melbourne
- Dandenong, Melbourne
- Derrimut, Melbourne
- Ferntree Gully, Melbourne
- Flinders, Melbourne
- Footscray, Melbourne
- Frankston, Melbourne
- Glen Iris, Melbourne
- Heidelberg West, Melbourne
- Hoppers Crossing, Melbourne
- Lilydale, Melbourne
- Maidstone, Melbourne
- Maribyrnong, Melbourne
- Melbourne Airport Area
- Melbourne Airport West
- Melbourne Blackburn Railway Station
- Melbourne Frankston Port
- Melbourne Gardenvale Railway Station
- Melbourne Highett Railway Station
- Melbourne Southern Cross Railway Station
- Melton town centre, Melbourne
- Moorabbin, Melbourne
- Mornington, Melbourne
- Mulgrave town centre, Melbourne
- Noble Park, Melbourne
- Officer town centre, Melbourne
- Pakenham Railway Station
- Pakenham town centre, Melbourne
- Preston, Melbourne
- Ravenhall, Melbourne
- Richmond, Melbourne
- Somerton, Melbourne
- South Melbourne
- South Yarra, Melbourne
- Southbank, Melbourne
- Sunshine West, Melbourne
- Sunshine, Melbourne
- Thomastown, Melbourne
- Truganina town centre, Melbourne
- Tullamarine, Melbourne
- Vermont, Melbourne
- Wallan town centre, Melbourne
- Williamstown North, Melbourne
QLDBrisbane
River city and the gateway to the Gold Coast.
29 Brisbane locations
- Brisbane Airport
- Brisbane City Centre
- Archerfield, Brisbane
- Boondall, Brisbane
- Booval, Brisbane
- Brendale town centre, Brisbane
- Brisbane (delivery and collection)
- Brisbane Salisbury Railway Station
- Bundamba town centre, Brisbane
- Burpengary town centre, Brisbane
- Caboolture town centre, Brisbane
- Cannon Hill, Brisbane
- Eagle Farm, Brisbane
- Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
- Geebung, Brisbane
- Hamilton, Brisbane
- Hendra, Brisbane
- Kallangur, Brisbane
- Kippa-Ring town centre, Brisbane
- Mansfield, Brisbane
- Moorooka town centre, Brisbane
- Newtown, Brisbane
- North Lakes, Brisbane
- Rocklea, Brisbane
- Slacks Creek, Brisbane
- South Brisbane
- Tingalpa, Brisbane
- West End town centre, Brisbane
- Yamanto, Brisbane
WAPerth
Sunsets, beaches and the road to Margaret River.
18 Perth locations
- Perth Airport
- Perth City Centre
- Ascot, Perth
- Bassendean, Perth
- Fremantle, Perth
- Kewdale, Perth
- Malaga town centre, Perth
- Malaga, Perth
- Midvale, Perth
- Osborne Park, Perth
- Palmyra, Perth
- South Fremantle, Perth
- South Guildford, Perth
- Victoria Park, Perth
- Wangara, Perth
- Welshpool, Perth
- West, Perth
- White Gum Valley, Perth
QLD
QLDGold Coast
Surf beaches, theme parks and a skyline by the sea.
SAAdelaide
Barossa Valley, wine country and Kangaroo Island.
17 Adelaide locations
- Adelaide Airport
- Adelaide City Centre
- Adelaide Railway Station
- Clarence Gardens, Adelaide
- Collinswood, Adelaide
- Croydon Park, Adelaide
- Edwardstown, Adelaide
- Klemzig, Adelaide
- Marleston, Adelaide
- Melrose Park, Adelaide
- Mitchell Park, Adelaide
- Plympton, Adelaide
- Regency Park, Adelaide
- Reynella, Adelaide
- Salisbury Plain, Adelaide
- Salisbury town centre, Adelaide
- Wingfield, Adelaide
TASWhich car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Best fit for this trip
Couples Road Trip
Seats2–4
Bags2–3
PriorityHighway ease
Room for two plus luggage with a comfortable ride on highways.
- Confirm the kilometre allowance for longer trips.
- Ask whether one-way drop-off is allowed.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Best fit for this trip
Family Holiday
Seats5–7
Bags4–5
PrioritySpace first
Seats and boot space for children, bags and gear.
- Check child-seat availability and fees.
- Compare boot space as well as seat count.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Best fit for this trip
EV Road Trip
Seats2–5
Bags2–3
PriorityCharging stops
Quiet and cheap to run, best on routes with reliable fast chargers.
- Check charger locations along your route before you go.
- Range falls with heat, hills and speed.
Which car fits your trip?
Pick the kind of trip you are planning and we'll show the car type that usually fits. Exact models depend on the supplier.
Popular routes
Plan a one-way drive with distance, time and fuel estimates, or start from a popular route. Distances and times are approximate.
One-way trip details
Sydney
Melbourne
Melbourne
10 h · 880 km
Recommended2 days, 1 overnight stop
Suggested carCompact SUV
Suggested breaks5 (every 2 hrs)
One-way chargeShown in results
Times are approximate and exclude stops. Any one-way charge is supplier-specific and depends on route, season and vehicle.
Supplier-specific one-way feeExplore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Victoria Coastal
The Great Ocean Road
Cliff-top bends, surf beaches and the Twelve Apostles on one of the world’s great coastal drives.
Melbourne → Warrnambool
Route The Great Ocean Road
SchematicDistanceAbout 360 km
Time needed3–4 days
Best seasonOct–Apr
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Bells Beach and Torquay surf coast
- Memorial Arch at Eastern View
- Lorne and Erskine Falls
- Koalas at Kennett River
Car rental tips
- The road is narrow and winding: allow twice the time a map suggests and use the pull-over bays.
- Drive west for the ocean on your side of the car (Australia drives on the left).
- Book accommodation early for summer and Easter weekends.
Suggested car: Compact or Convertible
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Victoria Coastal
The Great Ocean Road
Cliff-top bends, surf beaches and the Twelve Apostles on one of the world’s great coastal drives.
Melbourne → Warrnambool
Route The Great Ocean Road
SchematicDistanceAbout 360 km
Time needed3–4 days
Best seasonOct–Apr
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Bells Beach and Torquay surf coast
- Memorial Arch at Eastern View
- Lorne and Erskine Falls
- Koalas at Kennett River
Car rental tips
- The road is narrow and winding: allow twice the time a map suggests and use the pull-over bays.
- Drive west for the ocean on your side of the car (Australia drives on the left).
- Book accommodation early for summer and Easter weekends.
Suggested car: Compact or Convertible
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
South Australia and Western Australia Outback
The Nullarbor Plain
Cross the treeless plain on the Eyre Highway, with whale-watching cliffs and the 90 Mile Straight.
Adelaide → Perth
Route The Nullarbor Plain
SchematicDistanceAbout 2,700 km
Time needed5–7 days
Best seasonApr–Oct
RoadsSealed (Eyre Highway)
Highlights
- Head of Bight whale watching (Jun–Oct)
- Bunda Cliffs lookouts
- 90 Mile Straight
- Eucla telegraph station ruins
Car rental tips
- Fuel up at every roadhouse and carry plenty of water.
- Avoid driving at dawn, dusk and night: kangaroos, camels and road trains.
- Fresh fruit, vegetables and honey are confiscated at the WA border.
Suggested car: SUV for comfort
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Western Australia (Kimberley) 4WD outback
The Gibb River Road
The Kimberley’s legendary outback track: red gorges, swimming holes and remote stations.
Derby → Kununurra
Route The Gibb River Road
SchematicDistanceAbout 660 km
Time needed7–10 days
Best seasonMay–Oct
RoadsMostly unsealed, 4WD only
Highlights
- Windjana Gorge and its freshwater crocodiles
- Tunnel Creek
- Bell Gorge swimming hole
- Manning Gorge
Car rental tips
- Only take a vehicle whose agreement explicitly permits the Gibb River Road. Standard cars and many 4WDs are excluded.
- Check road status with Main Roads WA before you leave: rain closes sections.
- Carry two spare tyres, water and food for several days, and fuel up at every roadhouse.
Suggested car: 4WD (permitted for the Gibb)
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Victoria Coastal
The Great Ocean Road
Cliff-top bends, surf beaches and the Twelve Apostles on one of the world’s great coastal drives.
Melbourne → Warrnambool
Route The Great Ocean Road
SchematicDistanceAbout 360 km
Time needed3–4 days
Best seasonOct–Apr
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Bells Beach and Torquay surf coast
- Memorial Arch at Eastern View
- Lorne and Erskine Falls
- Koalas at Kennett River
Car rental tips
- The road is narrow and winding: allow twice the time a map suggests and use the pull-over bays.
- Drive west for the ocean on your side of the car (Australia drives on the left).
- Book accommodation early for summer and Easter weekends.
Suggested car: Compact or Convertible
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Western Australia Coastal
The South West Edge
Wineries, giant karri forests and turquoise bays on a week-long loop from Perth to Albany.
Perth → Albany
Route The South West Edge
SchematicDistanceAbout 1,000 km
Time needed7 days
Best seasonSep–May
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Busselton Jetty, the longest timber jetty in the southern hemisphere
- Margaret River wineries and caves
- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse where two oceans meet
- Karri forests around Pemberton
Car rental tips
- Distances are short, but kangaroos are common at dawn and dusk.
- A one-way Perth to Albany rental saves the drive back; fly back to Perth from Albany.
- Book Margaret River stays early for school holidays.
Suggested car: Compact SUV
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Western Australia (Kimberley) 4WD outback
The Gibb River Road
The Kimberley’s legendary outback track: red gorges, swimming holes and remote stations.
Derby → Kununurra
Route The Gibb River Road
SchematicDistanceAbout 660 km
Time needed7–10 days
Best seasonMay–Oct
RoadsMostly unsealed, 4WD only
Highlights
- Windjana Gorge and its freshwater crocodiles
- Tunnel Creek
- Bell Gorge swimming hole
- Manning Gorge
Car rental tips
- Only take a vehicle whose agreement explicitly permits the Gibb River Road. Standard cars and many 4WDs are excluded.
- Check road status with Main Roads WA before you leave: rain closes sections.
- Carry two spare tyres, water and food for several days, and fuel up at every roadhouse.
Suggested car: 4WD (permitted for the Gibb)
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
South Australia and Western Australia Outback
The Nullarbor Plain
Cross the treeless plain on the Eyre Highway, with whale-watching cliffs and the 90 Mile Straight.
Adelaide → Perth
Route The Nullarbor Plain
SchematicDistanceAbout 2,700 km
Time needed5–7 days
Best seasonApr–Oct
RoadsSealed (Eyre Highway)
Highlights
- Head of Bight whale watching (Jun–Oct)
- Bunda Cliffs lookouts
- 90 Mile Straight
- Eucla telegraph station ruins
Car rental tips
- Fuel up at every roadhouse and carry plenty of water.
- Avoid driving at dawn, dusk and night: kangaroos, camels and road trains.
- Fresh fruit, vegetables and honey are confiscated at the WA border.
Suggested car: SUV for comfort
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Tasmania Coastal
The Great Eastern Drive
Tasmania’s east coast: white sand, granite peaks, oysters and the orange-lichen Bay of Fires.
Hobart → Binalong Bay
Route The Great Eastern Drive
SchematicDistanceAbout 330 km
Time needed3–5 days
Best seasonOct–Apr
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Maria Island (ferry from Triabunna; no cars)
- Spiky Bridge near Swansea
- Wineglass Bay lookout in Freycinet National Park
- Bicheno penguins and blowhole
Car rental tips
- Wallabies and wombats are everywhere at dusk: slow down.
- Book Freycinet accommodation early in summer.
- A one-way to Launceston avoids backtracking.
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
South Australia and Northern Territory Outback
The Explorer’s Way
Coast to coast through the heart of Australia: opal fields, Uluru, the MacDonnell Ranges and Top End gorges.
Adelaide → Darwin
Route The Explorer’s Way
SchematicDistanceAbout 3,030 km
Time needed10–14 days
Best seasonMay–Sep
RoadsSealed (Stuart Highway)
Highlights
- Flinders Ranges (detour)
- Coober Pedy’s underground town
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
- Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges
Car rental tips
- Plan fuel stops: some stretches have 250 km between services.
- Avoid night driving because of wildlife, stock and road trains.
- Many unsealed side roads are excluded by rental agreements.
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Queensland Coastal
The Great Barrier Reef Drive
Where two World Heritage areas meet: reef on one side, the Daintree Rainforest on the other.
Cairns → Cape Tribulation
Route The Great Barrier Reef Drive
SchematicDistanceAbout 140 km
Time needed2–4 days
Best seasonMay–Oct
RoadsSealed to Cape Tribulation
Highlights
- Palm Cove beach
- Rex Lookout over the Coral Sea
- Port Douglas and reef trips
- Mossman Gorge
Car rental tips
- From November to May, box jellyfish are in coastal waters: swim at netted beaches only.
- Check your agreement covers the Daintree River ferry.
- Do not continue onto the Bloomfield Track unless your vehicle and agreement allow it.
Suggested car: Compact or Convertible
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
Northern Territory Outback
The Red Centre Way
A loop through the West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon and Uluru-Kata Tjuta.
Alice Springs → Uluru
Route The Red Centre Way
SchematicDistanceAbout 1,100 km
Time needed5–7 days
Best seasonMay–Sep
RoadsMostly sealed; Mereenie Loop unsealed
Highlights
- Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm
- Ormiston Gorge waterhole
- Kings Canyon Rim Walk
- Uluru base walk and sunset viewing
Car rental tips
- Only use the unsealed Mereenie Loop if your agreement allows it and you hold a permit.
- Carry at least 5 litres of water per person per day.
- National park passes are required for Uluru-Kata Tjuta.
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
New South Wales Coastal
The Grand Pacific Drive
Rainforest, the Sea Cliff Bridge and seaside towns, just south of Sydney.
Sydney → Shoalhaven
Route The Grand Pacific Drive
SchematicDistanceAbout 140 km
Time needed1–3 days
Best seasonAll year
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Royal National Park
- Bald Hill Lookout at Stanwell Park
- Sea Cliff Bridge
- Wollongong beaches and lighthouses
Car rental tips
- Weekends are busy: start early.
- Royal National Park requires a vehicle entry fee.
- Hyams Beach parking is limited in summer.
Suggested car: Convertible or Compact
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Explore Australia by Road
Ten of Australia’s great road trips, with distance, time needed, best season, road conditions and the rental car that suits each one. Open a trip for the full guide.
New South Wales and Queensland Coastal
The Legendary Pacific Coast
Beaches, national parks and coastal towns all the way from Sydney to Brisbane.
Sydney → Brisbane
Route The Legendary Pacific Coast
SchematicDistanceAbout 1,000 km
Time needed5–7 days
Best seasonSep–May
RoadsSealed
Highlights
- Central Coast beaches
- Port Stephens dolphins and sand dunes
- Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
- Coffs Harbour and the Big Banana
Car rental tips
- Daylight saving: NSW is an hour ahead of Queensland from October to April.
- Compare the one-way fee in both directions.
- School holidays fill coastal towns quickly.
Suggested car: SUV or Convertible
Distances and times are approximate and do not include stops. Check unsealed-road, ferry and toll rules in your rental agreement before you go.
Before you book
Ten things to check in your rental conditions. Supplier-specific
✓
Driver age requirements
Minimum age and young-driver fees vary by supplier.
✓
Licence requirements
Check whether your licence needs an English translation or international permit.
✓
Deposit
A temporary card hold, usually released after return. Amount varies.
✓
Excess
The amount you may pay if the car is damaged. Reduction options vary.
✓
Fuel policy
Common policies are full-to-full or pre-purchased fuel. Check which applies.
✓
Mileage policy
Some rentals include unlimited kilometres and some cap them.
✓
Toll policy
Ask how tolls are charged and whether an admin fee applies.
✓
One-way fee
Shown for different pickup and drop-off locations. Varies by route.
✓
Road restrictions
Check unsealed roads, national parks, beaches and ferries.
✓
After-hours return
Not every location has a key drop. Confirm return times and instructions.
Terms vary by supplier and booking.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
New South Wales
Cashless tollsDriving
Sydney traffic and speed cameras. Winding roads in mountain areas.
Tolls
Many Sydney toll roads and tunnels are cashless.
Rental restrictions
Check unsealed road and national park terms.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Victoria
Cashless tollsDriving
Melbourne trams and hook turns. Winter alpine roads may need snow chains.
Tolls
CityLink and EastLink are cashless.
Rental restrictions
Check alpine and unsealed road terms.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 18, a year later than most states.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Queensland
Cashless tollsDriving
Flooding can close northern roads in the wet season.
Tolls
Brisbane toll roads are cashless.
Rental restrictions
Beach and flooded-crossing driving is commonly excluded.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Western Australia
No toll roads on typical routesDriving
Very long distances and limited services outside towns.
Tolls
No toll roads on typical visitor routes.
Rental restrictions
Remote and unsealed routes need supplier permission.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
South Australia
No toll roads on typical routesDriving
Outback and Nullarbor routes are remote. Carry water.
Tolls
No toll roads on typical visitor routes.
Rental restrictions
Check outback route restrictions.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Tasmania
No toll roads on typical routesDriving
Winding roads and active dusk wildlife.
Tolls
No toll roads on typical visitor routes.
Rental restrictions
Check ferry and unsealed road terms.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Northern Territory
No toll roads on typical routesDriving
Some signed sections allow 130 km/h. Road trains and wet-season closures.
Tolls
No toll roads on typical visitor routes.
Rental restrictions
Many outback roads are unsealed. Check your agreement.
Driver age
- Provisional licence: earliest at 16½, and the NT has no P2 stage.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
Australian Capital Territory
No toll roads on typical routesDriving
Fixed and mobile speed cameras.
Tolls
No toll roads on typical visitor routes.
Rental restrictions
Check cross-border and one-way terms for NSW trips.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Driving and rental rules by state
Pick a state or territory. Rules vary by state and by rental supplier, so check the conditions for your selected rental.
New South Wales
Cashless tollsDriving
Sydney traffic and speed cameras. Winding roads in mountain areas.
Tolls
Many Sydney toll roads and tunnels are cashless.
Rental restrictions
Check unsealed road and national park terms.
Driver age
- Provisional (P1) licence: earliest at 17.
- Car hire: usually 21+ with a full licence. Suppliers set this, so it is the same in every state.
- Under 25: a daily young driver fee usually applies, and larger or premium cars may be off limits.
Customer reviews
What travellers say about their rentals. Each review shows its rating, date, pickup location and vehicle category.
Overall rating
Traveller reviews
4.7/5
Based on 1500+ verified reviews
Customer reviews
What travellers say about their rentals. Each review shows its rating, date, pickup location and vehicle category.
Overall rating
Traveller reviews
4.7/5
Based on 1500+ verified reviews
Customer reviews
What travellers say about their rentals. Each review shows its rating, date, pickup location and vehicle category.
Overall rating
Traveller reviews
4.7/5
Based on 1500+ verified reviews
Customer reviews
What travellers say about their rentals. Each review shows its rating, date, pickup location and vehicle category.
Overall rating
Traveller reviews
4.7/5
Based on 1500+ verified reviews
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
Can I rent a car one-way in Australia?
Yes. Many suppliers allow different pickup and drop-off locations, and a one-way charge may apply.
Can I return a rental car in another state?
Often yes, between supplier locations. Some routes have restrictions or fees.
How much does a one-way rental cost?
It varies by supplier, route, vehicle and dates. Any one-way charge is shown before you book.
Are tolls included?
Usually not. Tolls are typically charged separately.
How does the rental company charge tolls?
Methods vary, such as e-tags or billing your card afterwards, often with an admin fee.
Can I drive on unsealed roads?
Many agreements restrict or exclude them. Check your conditions before you go.
Do I need a 4WD?
Not for most sealed routes. Remote or unsealed routes depend on what your rental permits.
Can I take a rental car on a ferry?
Often restricted. Check terms, including for Tasmania ferries.
What is the rental deposit?
A temporary hold on your card. The amount varies and is released after return.
What is the excess?
The maximum you may pay for damage unless you reduce it. It varies by supplier and vehicle.
Can I add another driver?
Usually, if they meet age and licence rules. A fee may apply.
Can I return the car after hours?
Some locations allow it with a key drop. Confirm before you book.
What happens if I return the car late?
Extra hours or days may be charged, and cover may be affected. Contact the supplier.
Can international visitors rent a car in Australia?
Generally yes with a valid licence. An English translation or permit may be needed.
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
Can I rent a car one-way in Australia?
Yes. Many suppliers allow different pickup and drop-off locations, and a one-way charge may apply.
Can I return a rental car in another state?
Often yes, between supplier locations. Some routes have restrictions or fees.
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
How much does a one-way rental cost?
It varies by supplier, route, vehicle and dates. Any one-way charge is shown before you book.
Are tolls included?
Usually not. Tolls are typically charged separately.
How does the rental company charge tolls?
Methods vary, such as e-tags or billing your card afterwards, often with an admin fee.
What is the rental deposit?
A temporary hold on your card. The amount varies and is released after return.
What is the excess?
The maximum you may pay for damage unless you reduce it. It varies by supplier and vehicle.
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
Can I drive on unsealed roads?
Many agreements restrict or exclude them. Check your conditions before you go.
Do I need a 4WD?
Not for most sealed routes. Remote or unsealed routes depend on what your rental permits.
Can I take a rental car on a ferry?
Often restricted. Check terms, including for Tasmania ferries.
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
Can I add another driver?
Usually, if they meet age and licence rules. A fee may apply.
Can I return the car after hours?
Some locations allow it with a key drop. Confirm before you book.
What happens if I return the car late?
Extra hours or days may be charged, and cover may be affected. Contact the supplier.
Can international visitors rent a car in Australia?
Generally yes with a valid licence. An English translation or permit may be needed.
Traveller questions
Short answers. Details depend on your supplier and booking.
Can I rent a car one-way in Australia?
Yes. Many suppliers allow different pickup and drop-off locations, and a one-way charge may apply.
Can I return a rental car in another state?
Often yes, between supplier locations. Some routes have restrictions or fees.
How much does a one-way rental cost?
It varies by supplier, route, vehicle and dates. Any one-way charge is shown before you book.
Are tolls included?
Usually not. Tolls are typically charged separately.
How does the rental company charge tolls?
Methods vary, such as e-tags or billing your card afterwards, often with an admin fee.
Can I drive on unsealed roads?
Many agreements restrict or exclude them. Check your conditions before you go.
Do I need a 4WD?
Not for most sealed routes. Remote or unsealed routes depend on what your rental permits.
Can I take a rental car on a ferry?
Often restricted. Check terms, including for Tasmania ferries.
What is the rental deposit?
A temporary hold on your card. The amount varies and is released after return.
What is the excess?
The maximum you may pay for damage unless you reduce it. It varies by supplier and vehicle.
Can I add another driver?
Usually, if they meet age and licence rules. A fee may apply.
Can I return the car after hours?
Some locations allow it with a key drop. Confirm before you book.
What happens if I return the car late?
Extra hours or days may be charged, and cover may be affected. Contact the supplier.
Can international visitors rent a car in Australia?
Generally yes with a valid licence. An English translation or permit may be needed.