1989
It begins in Waterloo
Dan Mekler starts renting two vehicles from his South Sydney service station.
Proudly Australian. Since 1989.
Born local.
Born local.
Built to go further.
What started with two rental cars in a Sydney service station has grown into a national Australian car rental story. Through every chapter, one thing has stayed the same: our commitment to people, practical service and a fair go.
Australian owned, Australian operated, and always moving forward.
1989The year our journey began
100%Australian owned and operated
35+Airport, city and regional locations
10 million+Bookings and counting
Our beginnings
A service station. Two cars. One big idea.
In 1989, Dan Mekler was running a busy workshop and service station in Waterloo, South Sydney. He saw an opportunity to offer customers more than repairs. With a Holden ute and a Ford Laser, he began renting vehicles to locals who needed a reliable set of wheels.
Word spread. Two cars became fifteen. In 1995, Redspot opened a stand-alone rental office in Surry Hills, and in 1999 it secured a landmark licence to operate inside Sydney Airport terminals.
The goal is more than a booking. It is earning the next rental by looking after every customer.
Today, that customer-first approach still guides our Australian family-owned business, from frontline branch teams to the people keeping the fleet, technology and reservations running behind the scenes.
Read the full Redspot historyThe road so far
From a Sydney workshop to a national network.
Every new branch and milestone is another chapter in a uniquely Australian story. Here are some of the moments that shaped Redspot.
1995
Our first rental office
Redspot opens its stand-alone car rental office in Surry Hills.
1999
Sydney Airport breakthrough
An Australian independent wins a licence to operate within Sydney Airport terminals.
2004
Beyond New South Wales
Redspot secures airport operations on the Gold Coast and in Cairns.
2009
Building a national presence
Growth includes airport operations in Perth, Melbourne and Hobart.
2017
More than passenger cars
Commercial rental operations expand with facilities in Coburg and Mascot.
2025
Australian partnerships grow
Redspot partners with the Melbourne Storm as it continues expanding its presence.
2026
A new independent chapter
Operating solely under Redspot’s own brand, earning national customer awards and preparing for Ongoing Expansion.
What drives us
Big enough to get you there. Local enough to care.
A lot has changed since 1989, but our approach to renting a car should still feel refreshingly straightforward.
People first, always
Local teams, real conversations and a belief that the best rental experience is one customers feel confident recommending.
Clearer choices, better value
Practical vehicle options, transparent package information and the freedom to choose the extras that work for your trip.
Ready for the real world
From weekend getaways to business trips, moving day and worksites, our range goes well beyond the traditional rental car.
The people who matter most
Our customers tell the real story.
The best measure of what we do isn’t how long we’ve been around. It’s what customers say after they return the keys.
In 2026, customer feedback helped Redspot earn ProductReview.com.au awards for Car Rental Services of the Year and Direct Car Hire of the Year. We’re proud of the recognition and even more focused on continuing to earn it.
Customer-recognised service
2026
Car Rental Services of the Year
ProductReview.com.au · Award recognition
Where we’re heading
A Redspot for the way Australians move.
Whether you’re picking up keys at an airport, visiting a regional town or organising vehicles for your business, Redspot offers an Australian alternative backed by a national network.
Our offering spans everyday cars and SUVs, hybrid and electric models, utes, vans, trucks, minibuses and selected specialist vehicles. Availability varies by location, but the idea remains simple: the right wheels for the job.
AirportsGet moving after you land at major Australian airports.
City branchesPractical rental options close to where life happens.
Regional travelSupporting communities, work trips and local journeys.
Business fleetsFlexible options for corporate and commercial transport.
Be part of our next chapter
There’s more than one way to grow with Redspot.
Our story is still being written by the people who work with us, partner with us and help build stronger local rental businesses.
Make your next business move a Redspot.
Bring local market knowledge and a passion for service to an established Australian rental brand. Explore Redspot’s franchise approach, operator support and opportunities to grow in suitable territories.
Drive your career somewhere interesting.
From customer service and fleet operations to branch management, technology, marketing and head office roles, there are many ways to build a career with a proudly Australian company.
Frequently asked
Get to know Redspot.
A few quick answers about our company, our story and where to find out more.
Is Redspot an Australian-owned car rental company?
Yes. Redspot Car Rentals is 100% Australian owned and operated. We began in Sydney in 1989 and continue to operate as an Australian family-owned vehicle rental business.
When was Redspot Car Rentals founded?
Redspot’s rental operations began in 1989 at a service station in Waterloo, South Sydney. Founder Dan Mekler started with just two rental vehicles. See the company timeline for later milestones.
Where can I read reviews about Redspot?
You can explore customer feedback through our customer reviews page once published, or read about our 2026 ProductReview.com.au awards.
Does Redspot offer franchise opportunities?
Redspot welcomes enquiries from prospective franchise partners. Visit our franchise opportunities page to learn more and contact the team. Availability and suitability depend on the proposed location and business model.
How do I apply for a job at Redspot?
Visit our careers page to learn about the culture and different career paths, or browse current job vacancies.
Our story continues with your next journey.
From our first two cars to a national network, we’re still here to get Australians moving.