When it comes to hiring a car, understanding the costs upfront is important. Here’s a breakdown of the fees and charges you might encounter when booking with us. We aim to keep everything simple and clear, so you know exactly what to expect with your car hire cost.
Rental rates
Our daily rates cover up to 24 hours, starting from the time you collect your vehicle. If you return the vehicle late, charges are applied at one-fifth of the daily rate per hour for up to four hours. After that, a full day’s charge applies. Rates include GST and standard loss and damage cover.
Bond and payment
For 4WDs, a $1,000 bond is required, while all other vehicles need a $250 bond. This bond is a pre-authorisation on your credit or debit card, which ensures any additional costs like damage or fuel charges can be covered. Full payment for your estimated car hire cost must be made before collecting the vehicle.
Fuel policy
Vehicles are provided with a full tank of fuel. You can either return it full or leave it for us to top up. If we handle the refuel, a $20 service fee will be added to the cost of the fuel used.
Drivers and age fees
Minimum age: Drivers must be 21 or older.
Additional drivers: A one-time fee of $11 applies per additional driver.
Young drivers: Drivers aged 21-24 incur an extra $9 per day.
Provisional licences: Provisional drivers (with a licence held for 12+ months) can hire 4x2 cars only, at $20 per day.
Cancellation and booking
If you cancel your booking less than two hours before your scheduled pick-up, or you fail to collect the vehicle, a cancellation fee equivalent to one day’s rental will be charged. For buses and 4WDs, a $100 deposit is required to confirm your booking. This is non-refundable for cancellations made within seven days of pick-up.
Zone of use
Vehicles with unlimited kilometre rates are for local use within 200km of the pick-up location. Extended use is available by arrangement, but additional charges may apply to your car hire cost. Vehicles from Mt Isa are not eligible for unlimited kilometre rates.
Maintenance and repairs
Drivers are responsible for basic checks like oil, water, and tyre pressure. Regular servicing and repairs should be arranged with us. Failure to maintain the vehicle properly could result in additional costs.
Damage and risk reduction
Our standard cover includes an excess of $5,500 for sealed road use. To reduce your liability, you can purchase risk reduction options, which may lower the excess and cover windscreen, headlight, and tyre repairs. This option is highly recommended to manage unexpected costs during your hire.
One-way rentals
We offer one-way rentals for trailers and some vehicles between our Cairns, Townsville, and Mt Isa locations. If you’re hiring a vehicle one way, you can also hire a trailer for one-way use.
Final car hire costs
Your car hire cost will include the base rental fee, any additional driver fees, young driver charges, optional extras like risk reduction, and any fuel or late return fees. All rates are subject to the terms of your rental agreement.
Hiring a car doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve kept our fees transparent, so you’ll always know what you’re paying. If you have questions about your car hire cost or need a quote, contact us for more details.
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