Effortless Car Hire from Brisbane Central Station

You can legally drive in Queensland with a valid foreign licence if it's in English. If your licence isn't in English, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. Licences from China, Japan, Korea, and most non-English-speaking countries require an IDP. The minimum driving age is 21, though some rental companies charge a young driver surcharge (around AUD 15–30 per day) for drivers under 25.

Queensland's toll roads (Gateway Motorway, Logan Motorway, Clem Jones Tunnel) require an electronic tag — cash is not accepted. Most hire cars come with a transponder already installed; the rental company will charge you for usage at typical rates of AUD 3–15 per trip, plus a daily rental fee of around AUD 5–7. Without a tag, you'll receive a fine of AUD 200+ by mail, so always confirm the car has a transponder before departing.

Actually, you'll adapt quickly. Australia drives on the LEFT, same as the UK. The real adjustment is the car itself — you'll be in a right-hand-drive vehicle with controls on the opposite side. Take extra care at intersections, especially when turning right, and remember to look right first when crossing roads. Roundabouts also work differently — give way to traffic coming from the right.

Very real. Kangaroo strikes cause significant damage and injuries in Queensland, particularly at dawn, dusk, and night when they're most active. If driving outside urban areas (especially on rural highways), reduce your speed at these times and stay alert. An insurance excess for wildlife strikes can reach AUD 3,000–5,000, so consider comprehensive coverage. If a kangaroo is spotted, brake firmly but never swerve — it's safer to hit the animal than to lose control.

Queensland summers (December–February) bring heavy rain, flash flooding, and occasional cyclones. If a severe weather warning is issued, avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Hire cars are generally well-maintained, but check tyre condition and wiper functionality before setting off. Flooded roads can be deceptively deep — never drive through water covering the road. Keep your rental company's emergency number saved.

Almost all Brisbane hire cars run on unleaded petrol (95 or 98RON). The standard policy is 'full-to-full': you receive the car with a full tank and must return it full to avoid refuelling charges at above-market rates (AUD 2–3 per litre extra). Fuel stations are widely available in urban areas but can be sparse in regional Queensland. Budget AUD 60–90 to fill a standard sedan. Diesel vehicles are available but confirm the fuel type before pumping.