Want to drive around Australia? Here’s how

(Credit: fezbot2000/Unsplash)

While days on the open road through barren tracts of land have their own inherent appeal, distances can be very long in Australia, especially through the vast Outback. Still, there’s no denying the freedom that comes with having your own wheels, whether it’s exploring one region in depth, getting far off the beaten path, not worrying about a schedule or enjoying one of Australia’s iconic road trips.

If you’re travelling around Australia for an extended time, you might want to consider buying a vehicle when you get here. Otherwise ridesharing is also an option, and a short-term, local car rental to explore an area before moving on via plane, bus or train is also a great way to travel.

Although petrol/gas is expensive, Australian roads are generally in good condition and road rules are straightforward. Driving in Australia can be an excellent way to see the country!

(Credit: Robert Lang Photography/South Australian Tourism Commission)

TIP: If your home country licence is in English, that’s all you need; otherwise you’ll need an International Drivers License

Vehicle options

Rent a car
  • Major car rental firms operate across Australia (rates are competitive)
  • For exploring remote areas, a 4WD is essential, while for the ultimate freedom and adventure, a campervan lets you roam at will
  • Most rental rates include unlimited kilometres, but be sure to confirm this
  • One-way rentals of any vehicle type can incur a hefty surcharge
Buy a car
  • Can be economical for an extended visit to Australia
  • The complexities of buying, selling and licensing the vehicle are labyrinth
  • Each state and territory has its owns rules and regulations
Ride-sharing
  • Growing fast in popularity thanks to companies like Coseats.com, Shareurride and Facebook group Australia Rideshare Backpackers
  • Is economical and allows you to meet other travellers

Iconic road trips around Australia

Australia is full of popular driving routes that both capture the country’s essence and offer superb scenery, from east coast road trips to epic Outback voyages. Here are some of our favourite road trip ideas:

1) Great Ocean Road
Great Ocean Road: This 243km drive covers world-class coastal scenery, including the iconic 12 Apostles, towering rock formations jutting out of the ocean (Credit: Michelle O’Connor/Pixabay)
2) Red Centre Way:

Red Centre Way: A 5-day road trip from Alice Springs that captures the scenic drama of the Outback (Credit: Kevin Rheese/Flickr)
3) Great Barrier Reef Drive:

This 140km east coast road trip from Cairns to Port Douglas takes in the namesake world-class wonder offshore and the fabled Daintree Rainforest on land (Credit: Richard Ling/Foter)
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