Car Rental in Australia for Travelers from China

Australia is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, making it an ideal destination for road trips. For travelers from China, renting a car can unlock the full potential of your journey. Whether you're touring the Great Ocean Road or venturing into the Outback, this guide covers what you need to know to ensure a seamless experience.

Can I use my Chinese driver's license in Australia?
Will I need an International Driving Permit?
Are there specific driving rules in Australia I should know about?
How does car rental insurance work?
What are the costs for car rentals in different Australian cities?

Armed with this information, you'll be ready to hit the roads with confidence. Australia awaits, and your adventure starts here.

Can Chinese Citizens Drive in Singapore?

Yes, Chinese travelers can legally drive in Singapore with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Full driver's license issued in Singapore
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub. E-voucher or printed voucher may be required.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21 and 85 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 13.31 per day.

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Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore reputable car rental options in Australia that cater to Chinese travelers, focusing on reliability and customer service.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
697
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
692
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide range of vehicles from economy to luxury
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental duration
- Global presence with local expertise
Best for
Travelers looking for a reliable and diverse fleet
Thrifty
global
8.5
Locations:
1578
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable pricing
- Rewards program for frequent renters
- Easy online booking process
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
519
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide range of vehicles available
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient online booking
Best for
Travelers seeking quality and affordability
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
903
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient locations worldwide
- Robust customer service
- Variety of vehicle options
- Online booking discounts
Best for
Travelers seeking reliability and variety

Apex
local
8.5
Locations:
10
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive rates
- Flexible rental options
- Personalized service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals
BARGAIN
local
8.5
Locations:
61
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
- Special deals and discounts
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers looking for value
East Coast Car Rentals
local
8.5
Locations:
64
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental terms
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Discounts for long-term rentals
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
Everything Fleet
local
8.5
Locations:
19
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental options
- Competitive pricing
- Easy booking process
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
ACE Rental Cars
local
8.5
Locations:
61
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicles
- Personalized customer service
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Recommendations for Chinese Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You desire comprehensive nationwide service.
You rely on 24/7 customer assistance.
Your travel involves business or significant commitments.
You prefer a consistent rental process.

Choose Local Brands If:

You aim to save costs.
You plan to stay in major urban areas.
You seek unique vehicle options.
You are comfortable with digital platforms for reservations.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, destinations, and driving type. Compare multiple car types and policies to find the best fit for your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in AU
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Chinese insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Great Ocean Road, Outback Adventures
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Gold Coast, Cairns, Adelaide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

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No hidden fees
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What Are the Popular Destinations in Australia?

Australia boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique road trips. Explore iconic destinations like Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, and Brisbane with car rentals tailored for diverse travel styles.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Australia. To ensure peace of mind during your journey, additional coverage is strongly recommended. Insurance policies and coverage inclusions vary by rental company, so it's important to review your options thoroughly.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car caused by accidents or theft.
¥100-170/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against the theft of the rental vehicle.
¥35-55/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers injury or property damage caused to others by your vehicle.
Often included in rental cost
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
¥35-70/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Australia. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $6,658.53

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$822.85 - $6,658.53

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money While Renting a Car in Australia

Travelers from China can enjoy great savings on car rentals in Australia with these practical and easy-to-follow tips.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Plan and Book Early
Booking your car rental at least 3-4 weeks prior to your travel date often guarantees lower prices and more options.
Save up to ¥200-400
Use Comparison Websites
Platforms like QEEQ, Rentalcars.com, and Kayak allow you to compare prices from multiple agencies, ensuring you get the best deal.
Save up to ¥150-300
Opt for Economy Cars
Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable and fuel-efficient, which is ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Save up to ¥100-200 per day
Choose Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Pick up the car with a full tank and return it full to avoid high refueling charges from the rental company.
Save approximately ¥80-150 on fuel fees
Avoid Airport Rentals
Car rentals from airport locations tend to have higher fees. Opt for rentals in city centers when possible.
Save up to ¥300 in additional charges

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
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One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
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Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Essential points to consider when renting a car in Australia as a traveler from China.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of additional charges that may not be included in the advertised price.
- Airport location surcharges (up to $15/day)
- Young driver surcharges (for drivers under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- Optional equipment rentals such as GPS or child seats
- Charges for toll road usage
Insurance Requirements
Understand the insurance options offered by rental companies.
- Verify your existing insurance or credit card coverage
- Rental companies may offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
- Consider third-party insurance for cost-effective options
- Understand excess reduction fees and policies
Fuel Policy
Check the fuel policy of your rental to avoid unexpected charges.
- Full-to-full policy is generally the most economical
- Prepaid fuel options may be more expensive
- Make sure to refuel near the return location to avoid fuel penalties
Road Rules and Restrictions
Familiarize yourself with Australian driving laws and conditions.
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road
- Observe speed limits and road signs
- Be cautious of wildlife in rural areas, especially at night
- Understand local traffic regulations
Navigation and Distance
Plan your routes and account for long travel distances.
- Consider GPS or offline maps
- Distances between cities can be significant
- Plan rest stops for longer journeys
- Ensure you have mobile coverage in remote areas
Rental Agreement Details
Read the rental terms and conditions carefully.
- Check mileage limits and excess fees
- Understand the policy on vehicle damage
- Confirm the pick-up and drop-off requirements
- Ensure clarity on deposit and refund policies

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

What Are The Differences Between CN and AU Traffic Rules?

China (CN) and Australia (AU) have numerous differences in their traffic regulations, including driving orientation, road signs, and alcohol limits. Understanding these is crucial for driving safely in AU.

Driving Orientation
AU
Drive on the left side of the road
CN
Drive on the right side of the road
Horn Usage
AU
Horn use is discouraged except in emergencies
CN
Horn use is frequent in various situations
Alcohol Limits
AU
0.05% BAC limit for standard drivers
CN
0.02% BAC limit
Road Signs
AU
In English and metric units
CN
May include Chinese characters and metric units
Mobile Phone Use
AU
Hands-free use allowed
CN
Hands-free use allowed
Seatbelt Use
AU
Mandatory for all passengers
CN
Mandatory for all passengers
Parking Regulations
AU
Adhere to signage, parking on the left side
CN
Adhere to signage, parking on the right side
Remember
- • Always confirm local traffic laws in the specific Australian state you are driving in.
- • Ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Chinese driving license.
- • Be extra cautious with wildlife crossing in rural areas.
- • Adhere strictly to speed limits, as enforcement is strict in Australia.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from China renting a car in Australia

Can I use my Chinese driver's license directly for self-driving in Australia?

No, you must carry your original Chinese driver's license along with an officially recognized English translation (such as a NAATI translation). Both must be presented when renting and driving.

What is a NAATI translation? Is it mandatory, and where can I get one?

A NAATI translation is a driving license translation certified by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters in Australia. Most Australian states and major car rental companies require this. You can get one via Taobao or professional translation agencies by providing a scan of your license.

Can I use an International Driving Permit (IDP) instead of a NAATI translation?

No, China is not a signatory of the UN Convention on Road Traffic, so any 'International Driving Permit' issued in China is not recognized in Australia. You must have a NAATI translation.

Are there any age requirements for renting a car in Australia?

Yes, the main driver must usually be at least 21 years old. Some companies or premium car categories may require drivers to be 25 or above.

If I’m under 25, will there be extra fees for renting a car?

Yes. Drivers aged 21–24 typically incur a 'Young Driver Surcharge,' which is charged per day (about AUD 20–40/day).

Besides a driver’s license and NAATI translation, what documents do I need to pick up the car?

You need: 1) Original Chinese driver’s license, 2) NAATI translation, 3) Main driver’s international credit card (Visa/Mastercard), and 4) Passport.

Must I use the main driver’s credit card for payment? Can I use a companion’s card?

You must use the main driver’s credit card for both payment and the credit card pre-authorization (Bond). Using someone else’s card may result in the car not being released.

If I want my companion to drive too, what should I do?

You must add your companion as an 'Additional Driver' during booking. They must provide their original license and NAATI translation and meet age requirements. An additional fee usually applies.

How early should I start preparing these rental documents?

Start at least 2–3 weeks before departure to ensure you receive your NAATI translation in time. Make sure all other documents are valid and ready.

How early should I book my car for an Australian road trip?

Book as early as possible. For peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, Chinese holidays), reserve 2–3 months in advance. In the low season, at least 1 month ahead is recommended.

Which car rental booking platform is recommended for Chinese users?

I recommend using QEEQ. It offers a Chinese interface, Chinese customer support, price comparisons across major car rental brands, and affordable bundled insurance options.

What are the advantages of booking through QEEQ for Chinese tourists?

QEEQ provides full Chinese-language service, real-time price comparison, convenient order management, and insurance packages that are cheaper than at the rental counter.

How should I choose a vehicle type for my first trip to Australia? Sedan, SUV, or campervan?

Sedans are best for 1–3 people and paved roads. SUVs suit families or those with more luggage, and can handle some unsealed roads (check rental terms). Campervans are good for those wanting to save on accommodation but are harder to drive and park.

What are the main car rental companies in Australia, and what are their differences?

Major brands: High-end (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) offer newer cars and more locations but cost more. Mid-range (Budget, Thrifty, Sixt) offer good value. Local budget brands (Jucy, Apex) are cheaper but may have older vehicles and stricter terms.

Are ultra-cheap small rental companies trustworthy?

Be cautious. Some may impose high bonds, strict insurance terms, or have poor vehicle conditions. For first-timers, stick to reputable brands via QEEQ.

What should I pay special attention to when booking on QEEQ?

Carefully read rental terms regarding mileage limits (most are unlimited), ferry crossings, and area restrictions (e.g., no unsealed roads).

Do I need to rent a GPS device with my car?

Not necessary. Google Maps works well in Australia. Download offline maps and bring a phone holder.

How do I book a child safety seat if I’m traveling with kids?

Select the appropriate child seat (baby seat/booster) in the ‘extras’ section during booking. Australian law strictly requires child restraints.

What insurance is usually included in the rental price?

Basic insurance typically covers Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), and Third-Party Liability (TPL), but with a high excess.

What is the ‘excess’ in car rental insurance, and how much is it?

‘Excess’ is the maximum amount you pay out of pocket if the car is damaged or stolen. In Australia, this is usually AUD 4,000–8,000.

What is ‘Full Insurance’ (Full Protection/Zero Excess)?

Full insurance is an add-on that reduces your excess to zero. If you have an accident or damage within coverage, you pay nothing out of pocket.

Where should I buy full insurance—during booking or at the rental counter?

Buy the full insurance package via QEEQ when booking. It’s much cheaper than buying at the rental desk.

What is a credit card pre-authorization (Bond), and how much is it?

The bond is an amount the rental company freezes on your credit card to cover damages or extra charges. With only basic insurance, this equals your excess (AUD 4,000–8,000). With full insurance, it drops to about AUD 200–500.

When will the pre-authorized amount (bond) be released?

After you return the car and any extra charges are cleared, the company will unfreeze the bond. This usually takes 15–30 business days.

What extra fees might I encounter besides rental and insurance?

Possible extras: young driver fee, additional driver fee, child seat or GPS rental, airport surcharge, one-way fee, fuel, and tolls.

What is an electronic toll tag (E-tag), and do I need to rent one?

An E-tag is a device for automated toll collection on certain highways. Renting one is convenient if you plan to use toll roads in big cities.

What if I drive on a toll road without renting an E-tag?

The car’s license plate will be recorded. The rental company will receive the toll invoice and charge your credit card, often with an extra administration fee.

What is the process for picking up a car at the airport?

Follow ‘Rental Cars’ signs, present your documents at the counter, confirm contract details, get the key and vehicle location, inspect and photograph the car, and then depart.

What should I do if the counter staff tries to sell me full insurance but I already bought it via QEEQ?

Politely decline and say you’ve already purchased full insurance from your agent. Stand firm even if they stress potential ‘inconvenience’.

What should I photograph when checking the car at pick-up?

Take photos/videos of the entire car, including all scratches/dents (even small ones), the roof, undercarriage, glass, lights, wheels, interior, and the dashboard (with mileage and fuel level).

What is the ‘Full-to-Full’ fuel policy, and is it the best option?

‘Full-to-Full’ means you receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. This is the fairest and most economical policy for renters.

What happens if I return the car without a full tank?

You’ll be charged a premium fuel rate plus a service fee by the rental company. Always refuel near the return location and keep the receipt.

Can I pick up a car in one city and return it in another? Is it expensive?

Yes, this is called a one-way rental. Most companies allow it but charge a significant one-way fee, which depends on the distance between locations.

What is the car return process, and how much time should I allow?

Drive to the designated return area, a staff member will quickly check the car and fuel, and give you a receipt. Allow at least 30–45 minutes for the whole process.

Are rental counters open late at night or early morning if my flight is at such times?

Airport rental counters often have extended hours but aren’t always 24/7. Check your booking and company hours. Some offer after-hours self-service pick-up/return.

What’s the biggest difference between right-hand drive in Australia and left-hand drive in China? How do I adapt?

The driver sits on the right and drives on the left side of the road (Keep Left). Controls like the turn signal are reversed. Practice caution, follow other cars, and repeat the mantra ‘Keep Left.’

What’s the golden rule of driving in Australia besides driving on the left?

Respect ‘Right of Way.’ Pedestrians always have priority. At uncontrolled intersections, give way to main road traffic.

How do I navigate a roundabout (Roundabout) in Australia?

Slow down, give way to vehicles already in the roundabout and to your right, enter when safe, and signal left when exiting.

What does a ‘Give Way’ sign mean compared to a ‘Stop’ sign?

‘Give Way’ (upside-down triangle) means slow down and yield to cross traffic if present, stopping if necessary. ‘Stop’ (octagon) means you must come to a complete stop even if there’s no traffic.

What are typical speed limits in Australia? Are speeding fines strict?

Urban areas: 50km/h, school zones: 40km/h at certain times, highways: 100–110km/h. Speeding is strictly enforced with heavy fines and many cameras.

What should I do when I see animal crossing signs (e.g. kangaroos, koalas)?

Slow down and stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk. Don’t swerve sharply if an animal crosses; brake gradually and avoid sudden movements.

How do I refuel in Australia? Is it self-service, and is fuel expensive?

Fueling is self-service. Park, turn off the engine, fill up, remember your pump number, pay inside. Prices vary by location and fluctuate with the market.

Is parking easy in Australian cities? How do I read parking signs?

Central city parking is scarce and expensive. Look for ‘P’ signs: ‘1P’ or ‘2P’ means 1 or 2 hours. ‘Meter’ or ‘Ticket’ means paid parking. Red text usually indicates no parking.

What is an ‘unsealed road,’ and can I drive a rental car on it?

Unsealed roads are unpaved (gravel/dirt). Most standard rental contracts prohibit driving 2WD vehicles on these roads; doing so voids insurance.

Can I use my phone while driving in Australia?

Handheld phone use is strictly prohibited. Only use a phone mounted in a holder for hands-free calls or navigation.

How are Australian highways different from those in China?

Most are toll-free (except some city segments), with good road conditions. The rightmost lane is for overtaking only. Frequent rest stops are available—take a break every 2 hours.

What should I do if I’m involved in a traffic accident?

Stay calm, ensure safety, turn on hazard lights, check for injuries, call ‘000’ for emergencies. Exchange details, take photos, contact your rental company, and fill out an accident report.

What if the car breaks down or has a flat tire?

Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and call the 24-hour roadside assistance number on your rental contract or key tag. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

What should I do if I receive a traffic ticket after returning to China?

Your rental company will charge an admin fee and provide your details to authorities, who’ll email or mail you the official fine. Pay online as instructed to avoid immigration issues.

What if I discover unexplained charges on my credit card after returning the car?

Contact the rental company (or QEEQ customer service if you booked via them) and request an invoice. Provide check-out/check-in photos if you need to dispute damage charges.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Australia for Travelers from China

Can Chinese Citizens Drive in Singapore?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Chinese Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Australia?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money While Renting a Car in Australia

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between CN and AU Traffic Rules?

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations