We’ve all heard the horror stories: surprise charges after dropping off a hire car, mysterious “extra” fees tacked onto your bill, or customers fighting over inflated repair costs. But is car rental really the shady cousin of the travel industry—or just the victim of a few bad players?
Let’s break down the facts and separate the myths from reality.
Vehicle Damage Claims: The Truth Behind the Headlines
Yes, there have been cases where operators inflated repair costs, charging customers more than the actual repairs were worth. Thankfully, those dodgy practices have landed companies in hot water with regulators.
The reality? Most Australian car rental companies—including Redspot Car Rentals—follow strict industry standards. When damage occurs, we use reputable repairers, match the customer’s invoice to the real repair invoice, and make sure the costs are transparent.
👉 Want to know how it works? Check out our damage repair policy for full details.
Hidden Fees and Taxes: Still a Problem?
In the past, some rental operators used “bait advertising”—promoting cars for as little as $29 per day, then stacking on airport surcharges, admin fees, GST, and registration costs. Not surprisingly, the ACCC cracked down hard, labelling it misleading and deceptive.
Today, the majority of car rental providers in Australia advertise prices that include mandatory fees upfront, so you know what you’ll pay before you drive away. Of course, a few still try to bend the rules, but fines and consumer awareness have made these practices rare.
Tip: Always compare final prices, not just headline rates.
Airport Car Hire: On-Airport vs. Off-Airport
Here’s a travel tip many people don’t know: there are two types of airport car rental providers.
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On-airport operators have a rental desk inside the terminal and cars parked in official rental bays right at the airport.
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Off-airport operators don’t. They’ll shuttle you to a depot or ask you to make your own way.
The issue? Some off-airport companies still advertise themselves as “airport car hire,” causing confusion when travellers can’t find a desk inside the terminal.
The best way to check: visit the official airport website, which always lists the legitimate on-airport rental partners. That way, you’ll know exactly where to go when you land.
Why Transparency Matters (and What Makes Redspot Different)
Redspot Car Rentals is proudly Australian-owned and has always backed the underdog—because we’ve been one ourselves, competing against global giants. We believe in keeping things simple:
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No hidden surprises
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Clear pricing upfront
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Honest damage repair processes
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Convenient on-airport locations
Most importantly, we’re a member of the AFIA Car Rental Code of Practice—an industry-led standard designed to protect customers and ensure fair treatment. This code sets out clear rules around pricing, transparency, and handling of disputes, giving you extra peace of mind every time you rent with us.
The Bottom Line: Car Rental Isn’t the Black Sheep—Bad Operators Are
Like any industry, car rental has its cowboys. But the majority of Australian providers are transparent, regulated, and focused on customer experience. If you stick with trusted brands, check the fine print, and book through official channels, your rental experience should be smooth, fair, and stress-free.
Ready for a Stress-Free Car Rental Experience?
Skip the nightmare stories. With a modern fleet, transparent pricing, airport convenience, and AFIA Code membership, Redspot Car Rentals makes it easy to get on the road with confidence.