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Car Hire in Australia.

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What our customers say

Perfect experience. Very easy, smooth process with an excellent car

John - Cairns Airport, 2 months ago

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Book the best value car hire in Australia

Car hire in Australia is the only way to experience this mammoth of a country. Compare the best value car hire deals from Syndey to Melbourne and make your next trip down under a trip you won't forget. Booking Australia car hire with Zest means you can explore the outback or discover Sydney with no stress.

  • Excess insurance included
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Which car rental company should I book with in Australia?

We work with only the best providers across Australia. From global brands such as Sixt and Alamo to smaller, more local companies, you can be sure that whoever you book with, you'll have a fantastic experience. You will always be welcomed with exceptional customer service! Start your holiday the right way with Zest Car Rental!

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Book with Zest Car Rental in Australia

We take a fresh, honest approach to car hire. Our booking process is simple: clear pricing, no hidden costs, and no small print to sweat over. We want you to relax and look forward to your holiday, not worry about the logistics.

Unlock the real Australia

Australia is famous for its cosmopolitan coastal cities and dramatic natural wonders, but it is also the perfect gateway to spectacular coastlines and vast interior landscapes.

A scenic drive along the southeastern coast brings you to the famous Great Ocean Road, connecting historic maritime towns and framing the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks. Navigating these breathtaking coastal stretches opens up secluded national parks and pristine beaches that regional public transport simply cannot reach.

Further inland or along the expansive coastlines, a rental vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can drive through the world-renowned wine regions of the Barossa and Hunter Valleys or head along the Pacific Highway toward tropical north Queensland.

Having control over your itinerary allows you to safely experience Australia's massive geographic scale, moving comfortably between vibrant beachside communities and deep outback heritage sites without relying on fixed schedules.

Our Fleet in Australia

At Zest Car Rental, we offer a wide range of vehicles in Australia to suit every type of traveller. Fuel-efficient economy cars and compact models are ideal for navigating major urban districts and parking in popular coastal towns.

If you plan to tour the vast interstate highways, carry substantial holiday luggage, or explore regional routes, choosing a spacious intermediate vehicle or a full-size SUV can provide additional power, interior space, and driving comfort for the long distances.

One Way Rentals in Australia

In Australia, you can pick up your car and drop it off at a different location, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. One-way rentals are perfect for road trips, city-to-city travel, or flexible itineraries, such as collecting your vehicle in Sydney and returning it in Melbourne.

Please note that each provider sets their own rules for one-way rentals, and some may apply a mandatory local fee. This is clearly shown during the booking process.

Driver Age Requirements in Australia

Can I rent a car in Australia if I am under 25?
Yes. However, many providers apply a Young Driver Surcharge and may restrict access to luxury vehicle categories. Conversely, some providers allow younger drivers to rent with no extra fees at all.

Can I rent a car in Australia if I am over 70?
Yes. While some providers apply a Senior Driver Fee or have upper age limits, others welcome senior drivers with zero restrictions or extra costs.

What is the best time of year to explore Australia by car?

Because of Australia's massive geographic size, ideal driving seasons vary significantly by region. In the southern territories, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, the spring months of September to November and autumn months of March to May provide exceptionally pleasant temperatures and clear roads for long-distance touring.

The southern summer from December to February brings hot weather perfect for coastal routes, though popular coastal highways experience peak holiday traffic.

Conversely, if your itinerary covers the tropical north, including Cairns or the Northern Territory, the winter dry season from June to August offers clear skies and lower humidity, making it the preferred time to navigate northern highways while avoiding the heavy tropical monsoon downpours common between December and March.

Essential Tips for Driving in Australia

Driving in Australia is conducted on the left-hand side of the road, with overtaking executed on the right. Most toll roads in Australia use cashless electronic tolling systems, particularly in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. Because there are no physical toll booths to accept cash or cards directly, overhead electronic gantries read transponders or scan registration plates.

Many providers either use electronic toll tags or process tolls through vehicle registration-based billing systems, passing the costs through to the renter alongside a localized administration fee. Australia enforces strict drink-driving laws and penalties can be severe. If you plan to drive, the safest approach is not to consume alcohol before getting behind the wheel.

Check current local requirements regarding the use of dipped headlights or daytime running lights, as rules may vary depending on conditions and road type. When navigating large urban centers, pay close attention to localized traffic management rules, such as Melbourne's distinct "hook turns" at designated tram intersections.

Outside the major cities, maintain a highly alert driving style to account for vast distances between service stations and unique regional hazards. Motorists should remain cautious of native wildlife, particularly kangaroos crossing rural roads at dawn and dusk, and pay close attention to automated speed enforcement cameras which are strictly monitored nationwide.

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Average customer rating for car hire in Australia

(4.69 out of 5.00) based on 215 responses to our customer survey.

Popular locations in Australia

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Zest's Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Australia!

  1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

    Take a scenic road trip along the Great Ocean Road, which offers breathtaking views of coastal cliffs, rock formations like the Twelve Apostles, and charming seaside towns. It's a relaxing and picturesque drive that showcases Australia's stunning coastal beauty.

  2. Gold Coast, Queensland

    Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere, the Gold Coast offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment.

  3. Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland

    Embark on a reef adventure by visiting Cairns and exploring the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or dive to witness the vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral formations.

  4. Perth and Rottnest Island, Western Australia

    Enjoy the laid-back vibe of Perth and its beautiful beaches, such as Cottesloe Beach.

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