Car Rental - Your Journey Starts Here
Explore Australia Your Way – Trusted Car Hire Since 2006
Enjoy flexible, transparent, and affordable vehicle rentals across Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast & beyond. Trusted by 500,000+ travellers and locals.
Why Choose Alpha Car Hire for Your Australian Trip?
Competitive Rates, No Hidden Fees
We believe in upfront, honest pricing. No hidden fees or unexpected charges — just clear rates that help you plan with confidence.
Flexible Pick-Up & Drop-Off Options
After-hours access, shuttle pickups from major airports.
Customisable Insurance for Peace of Mind
Choose between standard liability or full waiver protection.
Local Experts, Real Support
Have a question? Speak directly with our friendly, local team — not a chatbot. Whether you're planning a trip or adjusting a booking, we’re here to help.
What Our Customers Say About Us
Need Brisbane airport to post signage for the company pick ups, was little annoying have to ask people, other company vans saying which van. And having to call up.
As I hadn't received any communication from 'customer service' regarding the substandard car they had rented out to me...I drove it back to Alpha at Brisbane.
I'm happy to say that a lovely lady called Erin, exchanged the 'jallopy' to a lovely, secure vehicle..no hassle whatsoever.
I just hope I don't find any hidden charges at the end of my rental agreement....
Really happy with the service received from shuttle and vehicle pick up. Our vehicle was the perfect size, had a few cosmetic imperfections but did the job. Will use this service again.
The rental cost was very resonable.. full insurance for 6 days was $392.
Car ran perfectly and was very comfortable (kia cerato)
Would thoroughly recommend this company.
It was quick to pick up and get on our way even though our car was not ready to go we were just given a better car and said we could be on our way. Great new car as quick on drop off. Heaps of staff at hand to make sure it was a fast process
Thanks heaps will recommend and reuse cheers tim
The counter staff were welcoming and informative, and the rates were the most affordable I found. They even helped adjust the rental hours to maximize my usage. The child seat hire was also cheaper than other providers.
Best of all, the bond was released within 30 minutes of returning the car. I’ll definitely use this company again when I visit Brisbane!
How It Works – 4 Easy Steps to Book Your Car
Here’s how booking a rental car usually works:
Step 1
Enter Your Dates and Location
Tell us when you need the car and where you’ll pick it up and drop it off. If you’re picking up from the airport, remember some companies like Alpha Car Hire use a shuttle bus service instead of a branch at the terminal.
Step 2
Choose Your Vehicle
Browse the available cars based on your dates and location. You’ll see options from small cars to SUVs, with details on capacity and features. Pick one that suits your needs and budget.
Step 3
Pick Your Coverage and Extras
Customise your booking by selecting insurance upgrades to reduce your liability and adding useful extras like GPS, child seats, or an additional driver.
Step 4
Confirm & Receive Instant Booking Details
Review your booking summary, make your payment, and then you’ll get an instant confirmation with all your rental details sent straight to your email.
Find the Perfect Car for Your Trip
Economy Car
4-5
Petrol
1 Large & 1 Small Bag
Weekend city escape in Brisbane
Compact SUV
5
Couples, small families
2–3 Medium Suitcases
Road trip from Gold Coast to Byron Bay
Large SUV
7
Large families, long drives
Petrol
2 suitcases
Family holiday across VIC & NSW
8
Groups, airport transfers
Petrol
Varies
Tour group airport pickup in Melbourne
2
Trades, gear hauling, camping
Petrol
Open tray
Moving tools or gear for work in Sydney
Moving Van / Truck
2
Furniture or bulky transport
Petrol/Diesel
5–15+ cubic metres
Apartment move across Brisbane suburbs
Key Details for Your Car Hire
🚦 Insurance & Road Coverage
All our cars are insured and road-legal in Australia. This includes basic cover but remember there’s usually an excess (the amount you pay if there’s damage). You can often buy extra cover to reduce this at the counter.
🔒 Security Deposits
We take a refundable security deposit to cover potential costs. We release this within 5 business days of you returning the car, but it might take your bank a bit longer to show it back in your account.
📃 Transparent Policies
Our full rental terms and conditions are always online. We recommend having a read, so you know exactly what’s what before you book.
Affordable Car Hire Across Australia – Travel Smart with Alpha
Whether you’re heading off on a road trip, flying into town for business, or simply need a set of wheels for a weekend getaway, Alpha Car Hire is here to help. With a wide range of reliable vehicles at competitive prices, we make renting a car simple, stress-free, and budget-friendly.
Local Driving Tips by City
Driving in Brisbane
Tolls: Expect tolls on major roads like the Gateway Motorway. Consider getting a rental with e-TAG.
Parking: Brisbane CBD offers limited on-street parking. Use secure parking stations when possible.
Best Drives: Try Mount Coot-tha for city views or the scenic route to Moreton Bay.
Driving in Melbourne
Hook Turns: Unique to Melbourne CBD – learn these before driving downtown.
Weather: Conditions can shift fast – keep headlights on and check forecasts.
Explore: Great Ocean Road is a must-drive route (ideal with an SUV or sedan).
Driving on the Gold Coast
Surfer Traffic: Expect congestion near the beaches during weekends.
Parking: Metered and time-restricted zones near major tourist areas.
Hidden Gem: The hinterland drives toward Springbrook National Park are stunning.
Driving in Sydney
Tolls: Sydney has an extensive toll road network, including the Harbour Bridge and Cross City Tunnel. An e-TAG is highly recommended for convenience.
Parking: Parking in Sydney, especially the CBD and popular beachside areas, is often expensive and limited. Look for secure parking stations or consider public transport for inner-city travel.
Best Drives: Enjoy the coastal drive from Bondi to Coogee or head out to the Blue Mountains for spectacular scenery.
Driving in Logan
Traffic: While generally less congested than Brisbane, peak hours can still see heavy traffic on major arterial roads like the Pacific Motorway.
Parking: Parking is generally easier and more readily available in Logan than in the Brisbane CBD, often with ample free parking at shopping centres and local attractions.
Explore: Discover the diverse Logan River Parklands for outdoor activities or take a leisurely drive through the semi-rural areas.
Our Comprehensive Car Hire Services
Whether you need wheels for a quick trip or a longer adventure, we’ve got you covered.
- Short & Long-Term Car Hire: Perfect for holidays, weekends away, or extended stays.
- Business & Corporate Rentals: Reliable transport solutions for your team.
- One-Way Trips: Go where you need to go, without the hassle of returning.
- Optional Insurance Cover: Drive with total peace of mind.
- Roadside Assistance Included: Drive with confidence, knowing help is always there.
Need a hand picking the best option? Our friendly customer service team is ready to help – just call or click away!
Free Airport Transfers: Your Hassle-Free Start to the Journey
Melbourne Airport (MEL)
Call 03 8592 6377. Pick up at T2, 2nd lane opposite T2 (white shuttle with green Easy Parking logo). No baby seats; no children under 6 months. Learn more!
Brisbane Airport (BNE)
Call (07) 3062 7439. Shuttles every 15-30 mins (10-minute ride). Look for the Purple Alpha Car Hire shuttle. Domestic pick-up from B1/B2 ground level bus zone; International from furthest bays at ramp bottom. Seats up to 9. Learn more!
Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
Call 07 5586 6900. Shuttles every 10-30 mins (10-minute drive). Pick up at the Bus & Coach Transit Area. Look for the Purple Alpha Shuttle Bus. Seats up to 9. Learn more!
Sydney Airport (SYD)
Always notify if your flight is delayed for after-hours pick-up instructions.
Drive safe, enjoy the ride!
Discover the basics of safe driving in Australia with our Australian Road Rules guide. This easy-to-follow resource breaks down important rules and offers practical tips, encouraging a safe driving culture. Learn the essentials for a secure and responsible experience on Australia’s diverse roads.
How Our Complimentary Airport Shuttle Service Works
At Alpha Car Hire, we make getting your car easy, even without an airport branch. Our free shuttle ensures a smooth start to your trip:
- Book Online: Secure your vehicle via our website, selecting your airport location.
- Arrive & Notify Us: Once your flight lands and you have your luggage, simply call us on the local number in your booking confirmation.
- Prompt Shuttle Transfer: Our branded Alpha Car Hire shuttle will pick you up from the designated off-airport car rental zone at the terminal and take you directly to our nearby depot.
- Effortless Vehicle Collection: Quickly complete formalities at our depot, inspect your car, and then you’re all set to drive away for your Australian adventure.
This streamlined process gets you on the road faster with Alpha Car Hire!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find the best car rental deals?
Alpha Car Hire strives to provide affordable car rental options in Australia, offering competitive rates and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Prices can vary based on location, season, and vehicle availability. To secure the best rate, we recommend booking directly through our website or contacting our reservations team. Our “Book Direct, Save More” initiative is designed to offer excellent value, though prices may differ depending on various factors.
What are the advantages of booking directly?
When you book directly, you gain access to our lowest rates, special offers, and flexible booking options, as well as direct communication with our team for any inquiries or requests.
What's included in the car rental price?
Our rates usually include Standard insurance, unlimited kilometres, and roadside assistance—everything you need for a smooth journey. Plus, you can easily upgrade your coverage during booking for extra peace of mind.
How will I know my reservation is confirmed?
Once you complete your reservation, you’ll see a “Reservation Confirmation” page with your reservation number highlighted. You will also receive a confirmation email with your booking details and collection instructions.
Can I extend the car rental duration?
You can extend your rental duration either when you pick up the vehicle or during your rental period. To do so, please contact us on 1300 227 473 or visit the nearest location. Extensions are subject to vehicle availability and additional charges.
Can I cancel or modify my reservation?
Yes, you can modify or cancel your reservation by contacting our reservations team at 1300 227 473 or NZ 0800 445 492.
Are there any cancellation fees?
Cancellation fees can be found in our terms and conditions.
Can I use someone else's credit card to pay for my car rental?
Yes, you can use another person’s credit card, but the cardholder must be listed as the main driver on the rental contract and have a valid driving licence in English.
What happens if I return the vehicle late?
If you return the vehicle more than 1 hour after the drop-off time, you will be charged an additional full day’s fee. For example, if your rental is from 8:00 AM to 8:00 AM the next day, and you return it at 9:01 AM, the extra charge will apply. If you have any questions, please contact our customer service team.
In the event of an accident, what am I liable to pay?
In the event of an accident, your liability depends on the coverage option you selected. Here’s a quick summary:
- Standard Cover: You are liable for up to $5,000.
- $500 Damage Liability: Liability is reduced to $500.
- $0 Damage Liability: Liability is reduced to $0.
Please note, liability may also vary based on the circumstances of the accident. For full details, please review our Terms and Conditions.
Is car hire excess insurance worth it?
Excess insurance can significantly reduce your liability in the case of damage, potentially down to $500 or even $0, depending on the coverage you choose. If minimising out-of-pocket expenses is important to you, excess insurance might be worth considering.
How old do I need to be to hire a car in Australia?
To hire a car in Australia with Alpha Car Hire, you must be at least 21 years old. Drivers aged 21-24 have limited vehicle options (including Economy Car, Compact Car, Compact SUV, Intermediate Car, and Ute) and are subject to an age surcharge.
Can you hire a car with a paper driver license?
Alpha Car Hire only accepts full, valid driving licences—paper licences, learner permits, and provisional licences are not accepted. We do accept digital driving licences from QLD, NSW, and SA, provided we can verify their validity. If verification is not possible, a physical licence will be required.
Where are the Alpha Car Hire locations in Australia?
Alpha Car Hire has several convenient locations across Australia, including both airport and non-airport options:
Airport Locations:
Non-Airport Locations:
For specific addresses, opening hours, and contact information, please visit the Alpha Car Hire website or contact their customer service directly.
How do I get to my Alpha Car Hire vehicle from the airport?
Alpha Car Hire offers a complimentary shuttle bus service from the terminals to our nearby branches for your car rental or car hire pick-up at Melbourne Airport, Brisbane Airport, Gold Coast Airport, and Sydney Airport. Once you’ve collected your luggage and are ready to go, simply call the relevant branch, and our team will direct you to the designated shuttle pick-up point. The shuttle will then take you directly to our office to finalise your rental agreement and collect your vehicle. Please note, for safety, children under 6 months cannot travel on the shuttle at Sydney Airport.
What should I do if my flight is delayed for an airport car hire pick-up?
If your flight is delayed for your airport car hire pick-up, please notify the Alpha Car Hire branch as soon as possible by calling their direct phone number. This allows us to make arrangements for your pick-up, especially if your arrival now falls outside our standard operating hours. For after-hours pick-ups, specific instructions may apply, and in some cases, self-service car collection might be required.
Explore Australia with Expert Travel Tips
Visit our Travel Blog to discover scenic road trip ideas, local attractions, driving rules and safety tips. We combine expert guidance with real stories from travelers like you.
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