Can I drive myself?

If you want ultimate freedom and you feel like tackling Australia's thousands of kilometres on your own, you're in for quite an adventure! Self-drive options ranging from campervan and car hire to motorbike and car and camper purchase are available to suit the needs of every traveller.

Do I need a special drivers licence to drive in Australia?

Tourists can drive in Australia with a valid overseas driving licence, providing it's for the same class of vehicle. An International Driving Permit is only valid with a current drivers licence from overseas. If your licence is not in English, you must carry an authorised translation.

Can I hire a car?

Many car companies offer discounted rates for longer hire periods and the option of starting in one place and leaving the car at another. You must be 21, have a valid drivers licence and credit card to hire a car in Australia.

What is a relocation?

Want to drive yourself but don't want to buy a car? Some car and campervan hire companies need to have their vehicles moved from one city to another in a limited number of days. All you have to do is pay a refundable bond, buy petrol, and get the vehicle to its designated place on time.

Can I buy a car?

Visitors are allowed to purchase cars while in Australia. The type of vehicle you choose depends on what type of territory you intend to cover. Two wheel drive vehicles can safely drive between all major capital cities and many of the routes in between. Older model vehicles are obviously cheaper but often cost more in maintenance and upkeep. More information.

Where is the best place to find a used car?

Car markets are a convenient place to buy and sell used cars — often at bargain basement prices. Many cars come with registration, camping equipment, and all sorts of freebies to sweeten the deal. You usually have to have a roadworthy test (see Pink Slip section) to enter the car market.

A car dealer is your best option if you're concerned about buying a car from another traveller or being able to resell it before you leave. Prices for cars at dealerships start at $3,000 and usually include limited guarantees, mechanical warranties, and buyback options for additional costs.

If I do buy a car, what do I need to do to get the car on the road?

Registration, Insurance & Pink Slips

Every car must be registered. This is the annual fee to keep your car on the road and includes the minimum legally required Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance or Green Slip. However, as CTP doesn't give you much coverage in the event of an accident, it's a good idea to look into additional insurance – specifically for non residents.

Pink Slips are proof that the vehicle has passed an annual roadworthy inspection. This is also a legal requirement and does not indicate vehicle reliability, just that it has passed an annual roadworthy test. You must have a Pink Slip to put your car on the road. If the car fails an inspection you will be issued a White Slip indicating its problems.

Current Pink and Green slips are included when you buy a car. If they have not expired, the remaining annual registration, and reliability slip can be transferred to the new owner.

Are the road rules any different In Australia?

Whether you hire or buy a car, be sure to familiarise yourself with Australia's road rules, carry a good map, and plan your route carefully. Seat belts are required by law in all states and must be worn when the vehicle is in motion. Speed limits for city and country driving vary from state to state — check with the local Roads and Transport Authority for local regulations.

Australian Capital Territory - (02) 7207 7000

Northern Territory - (08) 8999 3145

New South Wales - 13 22 13

Queensland - (07) 3253 4500

South Australia - (08) 8204 8218

Tasmania - (03) 6233 5318

Victoria- 1800 814 762

Western Australia - (08) 9427 8154

What about the wet season?

December to April brings the Wet season in tropical northern areas. Some roads in Outback regions may be closed. In the northern Dry season (May to November) temperatures can reach above 40 degrees during the day and near freezing at night. 4WDs may be needed for more remote areas and care should be taken by inexperienced drivers.

WE RECOMMEND All Seasons Campers, Totally Campers, Travellers Autobarn, Kings Cross Car Market and Bayswater Car Rentals as they have the best range of Cars, Wagons, and Campervans for newly arrived travellers.