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Drive from Gold Coast to Melbourne with Ease

Discover the freedom of a one-way car rental and explore Australia's scenic routes.

Can I rent a car from Gold Coast to Melbourne?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Gold Coast to Melbourne. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for AU residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Australia national photo ID.
  • Driving licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years depending on the rental provider.

    Notes: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard. If you are a local renter, you may be required to present a utility bill within 3 months for checking.

  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and JCB. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa, Master, AMEX).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-99 years depending on the rental provider. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees ranging from US$5.91 to US$27.50 per day, with some providers capping fees at US$75.88 or AU$115.50 for the rental period.
  • Driving licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-3 years depending on the rental provider. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + NAATI Translation
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (such as English, French, German, etc.) or Original Driver's Licenses printed in non-Roman alphabet (such as Arabic, Chinese, etc.) accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, and JCB. Some providers also accept debit cards (Visa, Master, AMEX).
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18-99 years depending on the rental provider. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees ranging from US$5.91 to US$27.50 per day, with some providers capping fees at US$75.88 or AU$115.50 for the rental period.
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What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee: Be aware that most rental companies may charge an additional fee for leaving the vehicle at a different location.
  • Cross-border restrictions: Confirm if your rental agreement includes restrictions on crossing state or regional borders during your journey.
  • Fuel policy: Ensure you understand the fuel policy (e.g., full to full) to avoid additional charges upon return.
  • Advanced booking: Bookings made in advance can sometimes save you money and ensure vehicle availability.
  • Vehicle pick-up and drop-off options: Check the operational hours and address of pick-up and drop-off locations to plan your schedule accordingly.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan stops along the route: Research potential stops and attractions on your route from Gold Coast to Melbourne for a more enjoyable trip.
  • Use GPS or maps: Ensure you have reliable navigation tools to avoid getting lost and reach your destination efficiently.
  • Choose the right vehicle: Select a car that suits your comfort level and the number of passengers or luggage you'll carry.
  • Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers: Keep the rental company support line and emergency services numbers handy.
  • Check weather conditions: Consider the season's weather while planning and make adjustments to your travel schedule if necessary.
  • Review rental policies: Read through the rental agreement to understand mileage limits, insurance coverage, and other key details.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use recommended fuel types to ensure vehicle performance.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along this route is approximately AUD 1.90 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel consumption.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance.

Use air conditioning sparingly to save fuel.

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Gold Coast Parking

Parking in the Gold Coast city center costs around AUD 3-5 per hour.

Free parking is available in suburban areas.

Use parking garages for extended stays to avoid fines.

Melbourne Parking

Melbourne CBD parking can cost up to AUD 10 per hour.

Street parking is available but often limited to two hours.

Consider using park-and-ride facilities for longer stays.

Recommended Parking Apps

Parkopedia

Secure Parking

Wilson Parking

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic Routes Between Gold Coast and Melbourne:
Pacific Highway Coastal Drive
Scenic Coastal Route 16-18 hours

A picturesque drive along Australia's eastern coastline with ocean views and charming beach towns.

Byron Bay , Coffs Harbour , Sydney , Canberra
New England Highway
Inland Countryside Route 17-19 hours

An inland route featuring lush farmlands, wineries, and historic towns.

Armidale , Tamworth , Hunter Valley , Albury
Highway One Grand Tour
Extended Scenic Route 20-22 hours

A majestic drive combining coastal and hinterland views for a comprehensive experience.

Brisbane , Port Macquarie , Blue Mountains , Shepparton
Pro Tips for a Smooth One-Way Rental Experience

Car Selection: Choose a vehicle suited for both city driving and long-distance travel. Factor in luggage space needed.

Fuel Strategy: Familiarize yourself with fuel policies of the rental provider and locate reliable refueling stops.

Route Planning: Research your route in advance for toll roads and scenic detours worth considering.

Booking Timing: Book rental cars in advance to secure better rates, especially during holiday seasons.

Cost Optimization: Look for one-way rental offers. Compare prices across providers to get the best deal.

Insurance & Coverage: Understand the insurance options for your rental. Consider additional coverage for peace of mind.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When selecting a car rental company for your journey from Gold Coast to Melbourne, it's essential to consider options that provide one-way rental services and assess their offerings.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$HighWide Extensive support across Australia , Wide range of vehicle categories from economy to luxury
Avis$$Very HighVery Wide Seamless booking process , Frequent offers and discounts for members
Budget$$HighWide Affordable pricing structure , Optional extras like GPS and child seats
Europcar$$$ModerateModerate Modern and well-maintained fleet , Multiple pickup and dropoff locations
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Gold Coast Car Rental Center Info

Operating Hours:

Most rental companies operate from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.

Rental Car Center Location:

Car rental desks are situated at the Gold Coast Airport's arrival terminal area.

Shuttle Services:

Some companies provide complimentary shuttles between the terminal and off-site rental lots.

Car Return Information:

Return the car to designated locations as outlined in your agreement before departure.

Pro Tips for Coolangatta Airport(OOL) Car Rentals

To avoid delays, confirm your rental company's return requirements and hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop off the rental car at a different location than the pick-up point?

Yes, you can choose a one-way rental option that allows you to return the vehicle in Melbourne instead of the Gold Coast. This often incurs an additional fee, so verify with the rental company beforehand.

What documents do I need for renting a car?

To rent a car, you generally need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and an identity proof. Non-residents of Australia might need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Is there a fee for returning the car in Melbourne?

Most car rental companies charge a one-way fee for dropping off the car at a different location. Ensure you inquire about this fee during your booking to avoid surprises.

Are there any mileage restrictions for the one-way rental?

Some car rental companies offer unlimited mileage, while others might impose a mileage cap. Check the terms and conditions of your rental agreement regarding mileage limitations.

Can I include additional drivers in my rental agreement?

Yes, additional drivers can often be included, though this may require an extra fee. Ensure all drivers meet the rental company's age and license criteria.

Ready to Book Your Gold Coast to Melbourne Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ