Terms & Conditions

    Last Updated: December 2024

    Please read these terms carefully before renting a vehicle from Rent A Car Now.

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    These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern the rental of vehicles from Rent A Car Now (ABN 31995299091) ("we", "us", "our") located at 9 Richards Street, Maidstone, VIC 3012. By renting a vehicle from us, you ("Renter", "you", "your") agree to be bound by these Terms.

    1. Rental Eligibility & Requirements

    1.1 Age & Licence Requirements

    • Renters must be at least 21 years of age
    • Must hold a valid driver's licence (Australian or International with English translation)
    • P-plate drivers accepted provided they are 21+ years old
    • International renters must provide passport and valid visa

    1.2 Required Documentation

    At the time of rental, you must provide:

    • Valid driver's licence
    • Government-issued photo ID
    • Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement)
    • Recent bank statements
    • Passport and visa (for international students/visitors)

    1.3 Application & Approval

    • All rentals require completion of our rental application
    • We reserve the right to refuse rental at our discretion
    • Approval is based on verification of documentation and eligibility
    • False or misleading information will result in rental refusal

    2. Vehicle Fleet & Pricing

    2.1 Fleet Categories

    AFFORDABLE FLEET: From $140/week

    • Early 2000s to 2015 models
    • Reliable, well-maintained vehicles
    • Mostly automatic, some manual available
    • Ideal for budget-conscious customers and students

    COMFORTABLE FLEET: From $190/week

    • 2015-2025 models
    • Newer, excellent condition vehicles
    • Automatic transmission
    • Popular choice for UberEats/delivery drivers

    SPACIOUS FLEET: From $250/week

    • 2015-2025 SUV models
    • Perfect for families and extra cargo
    • Automatic transmission
    • Maximum space and comfort

    2.2 Daily Rentals

    • Minimum rental period: 2 consecutive days
    • Day 1 begins at vehicle pickup time
    • Example: Monday pickup = Day 1, Tuesday return = Day 2 (minimum)
    • Daily rate calculated by dividing weekly rate by 4

    2.3 Weekly Rentals

    • Minimum rental period: 1 week (7 consecutive days)
    • Best value for money
    • Preferred rental option

    2.4 What's Included

    • Full comprehensive insurance
    • Unlimited kilometres (subject to your Rental Plan limits)
    • 24/7 roadside assistance
    • All scheduled maintenance and servicing
    • Vehicle registration

    2.5 What's NOT Included

    • Fuel (you pay for what you use)
    • Tolls
    • Traffic fines and parking fees
    • Optional reduced excess coverage ($8.60/day)
    • Additional drivers ($10/week per driver)
    • Pets (strictly prohibited except registered assistance animals)

    3. Payment Terms

    3.1 Accepted Payment Methods

    • Bank transfer
    • Debit card
    • Credit card
    • Payment can be made in person or online through our secure portal

    3.2 Payment Processing

    Your rental payments are processed through secure third-party payment service providers. By entering into this rental agreement, you authorise us to share your payment details with our authorised service providers for billing and payment processing purposes.

    3.3 Payment Schedule

    DAILY RENTALS:

    Full payment for all rental days plus bond required upfront

    WEEKLY RENTALS:

    • First week's rental plus bond paid upfront after approval
    • Subsequent payments via automatic direct debit every 7 days
    • Example: Start Monday, next payment due Sunday after first full week

    ADVANCE BOOKINGS:

    • $10 deposit required to secure reservation
    • Deposit applied to final payment
    • Bookings made 2+ days in advance require this deposit

    3.4 Late Payments

    If a payment is missed on a weekly rental:

    • Day 1: Reminder SMS and email sent
    • Day 2: Phone call from our team
    • Day 4: Final warning issued
    • Day 5-7: Vehicle retrieval and missed payments deducted from bond

    We encourage you to contact us immediately if experiencing payment difficulties. Early communication allows us to work with you on a solution.

    4. Fees & Charges

    4.1 Standard Fees

    All fees are inclusive of GST unless otherwise stated:

    TRANSACTION FEES:

    • Direct Debit Transaction Fee: $0.99 per transaction
    • Credit/Debit Card Transaction Fee: $2.20 per transaction

    ADMINISTRATIVE FEES:

    • Late Payment Fee: $35 (if payment overdue 7+ days)
    • Direct Debit Decline Fee: $25 (failed payment attempt)
    • Payment Dispute/Chargeback Fee: $60
    • Traffic Infringement Processing Fee: $60 per infringement invoice
    • Toll Management Fee: $30 per toll invoice
    • Car Swap Fee: $45 (if applicable to your Rental Plan)

    VIOLATION FEES:

    • GPS Tampering or Removal Fee: $500
    • Smoking Cleaning Fee: $150
    • Unauthorised Pet Cleaning Fee: $150

    VEHICLE SERVICE FEES:

    • Battery Jump-Start Callout Fee: $100 (if caused by renter negligence)
    • Tyre Puncture Service Fee: $15

    ADDITIONAL CHARGES:

    • Additional Driver: $10 per week per driver
    • Reduced Excess Coverage: $8.60 per day (optional)
    • Refueling Fee: $20 + actual fuel cost per liter (if not returned at same level)

    4.2 Insurance Excess Amounts

    • Standard Excess: $3,500
    • Reduced Excess (with optional coverage): $1,000
    • Unlisted Driver Excess: $5,000
    • Second Accident Surcharge: Additional $1,000 excess (if within 6 months of first accident)

    5. Security Bond

    5.1 Bond Amount

    • Refundable security bond ranges from $400 to $800
    • Amount determined based on vehicle and application review
    • Exact amount confirmed upon application approval
    • Paid upfront along with first rental payment

    5.2 Bond Refund

    • Refunded within 14 business days after vehicle return and inspection (business days are Monday to Friday, excluding Victorian public holidays)
    • Refund timeframe accounts for traffic infringements and tolls (which may take time to be issued)
    • Full amount returned to original payment account if no deductions required

    5.3 Bond Deductions

    Bond may be used to cover:

    • Vehicle damage beyond normal wear and tear
    • Missing items or accessories
    • Unpaid traffic fines or toll charges
    • Excessive cleaning fees
    • Smoking-related cleaning
    • Pet hair cleaning
    • Fuel costs if not returned at same level as received
    • Outstanding rental payments
    • Late return charges without prior arrangement
    • GPS tampering or removal fees

    6. Insurance & Liability

    6.1 Comprehensive Insurance Included

    All rentals include full comprehensive insurance covering:

    • Collision damage
    • Theft and fire
    • Third-party property damage
    • 24/7 roadside assistance

    6.2 Standard Excess

    • Standard excess: $3,500
    • This is the maximum amount you pay if insurance claim required
    • Applies to accidents where you are deemed at fault

    6.3 Second Accident Surcharge

    If you have a second accident within 6 months of a first accident:

    • An additional $1,000 surcharge applies on top of standard excess
    • Total excess for second accident: $4,500

    6.4 Reduced Excess Option

    • Available for $8.60 per day
    • Reduces excess from $3,500 to $1,000
    • Optional coverage, must be selected at booking
    • Second accident surcharge still applies if applicable

    6.5 What Insurance Does NOT Cover

    Insurance is void and you are liable for full damage if:

    • Driver under influence of alcohol or drugs
    • Reckless or negligent driving
    • Intentional damage
    • Driving by unauthorised/unlisted driver
    • Interstate travel (outside Victoria)
    • Off-road driving or unsealed roads
    • Using vehicle for illegal purposes
    • Racing or competitive driving

    6.6 In Event of Accident

    You must:

    • Ensure everyone's safety first, call 000 if injuries
    • Call police if significant damage or other party requests
    • Take photos of all damage and accident scene
    • Obtain other driver's details and insurance information
    • Contact us within 2 hours of accident
    • Obtain police report number
    • Complete our accident report form
    • Do NOT admit fault or liability at scene

    6.7 Vehicle Theft

    If vehicle is stolen:

    • Report to police immediately and obtain report number
    • Contact us within 2 hours
    • Provide all keys (theft claim invalid without keys)
    • Cooperate fully with police and insurance investigation

    7. Additional Drivers

    7.1 Authorised Drivers Only

    • ONLY drivers listed on rental agreement may operate vehicle
    • All drivers must meet eligibility requirements (21+, valid licence)

    7.2 Additional Driver Fee

    • $10 per week per additional driver
    • Driver must provide licence details for verification
    • Driver must be approved before operating vehicle

    7.3 CRITICAL WARNING - Unlisted Drivers

    If an unlisted driver operates the vehicle and has an accident:

    • Insurance excess increases to $5,000
    • You are personally liable for this amount
    • Insurance claim may be denied

    Always list all drivers who will operate the vehicle

    8. Vehicle Pickup & Return

    8.1 Pickup Location & Hours

    • Pickup location: 9 Richards Street, Maidstone, VIC 3012
    • Standard hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Weekdays
    • Same-day pickup available if booked before 6:00 PM
    • After-hours pickup: Available for approved customers with advance payment

    8.2 Delivery Service

    • Delivery available throughout Melbourne metro area
    • Delivery fee varies by location
    • Contact us for delivery quote to your address
    • Free pickup from our Maidstone location

    8.3 Vehicle Inspection at Pickup

    • We conduct thorough inspection together before rental begins
    • Existing damage documented with photos/video
    • You must report any additional damage immediately
    • You receive vehicle clean, fueled to specified level, and roadworthy

    8.4 Return Appointment REQUIRED

    • You MUST book a return appointment at least 2 days in advance
    • Returns without booked appointment will incur 2-day rental charge
    • This policy ensures staff availability for inspection
    • Contact us to schedule your return appointment

    8.5 Return Condition Requirements

    Vehicle must be returned:

    • At scheduled appointment time
    • To agreed return location (9 Richards Street, Maidstone)
    • Cleaned of personal belongings and rubbish
    • Reasonably clean (similar condition to pickup)
    • With same fuel level as received
    • With all keys, accessories, and documents
    • Free of damage beyond normal wear and tear

    8.6 Fuel Policy

    • Vehicle provided with fuel level clearly documented at pickup
    • Return with same fuel level as received
    • If not refilled: $20 refueling fee plus actual fuel cost per liter deducted from bond
    • We are transparent about fuel level expectations at pickup

    8.7 Late Returns

    • Extensions must be requested before rental end date
    • Returns after scheduled time without prior arrangement subject to charges
    • Returns without 2-day advance appointment booking: 2-day rental charge applies

    9. Rental Termination

    9.1 Termination by Renter

    • You may terminate rental with 21 days written notice
    • Notice period begins from date we receive written notification
    • You may either: (a) Provide 21 days notice and continue renting during notice period; OR (b) Return vehicle immediately and pay equivalent of 21 days rental charges

    9.2 Return Appointment Booking

    • Separate from termination notice
    • Must book return appointment 2 days in advance
    • Failure to book appointment: 2-day rental charge applies
    • This ensures staff available for vehicle inspection

    9.3 Termination by Us

    We may terminate this agreement immediately if:

    • You commit a major breach of these Terms
    • Payment defaults for 14+ days
    • False information provided
    • Vehicle used for prohibited purposes
    • You fail to comply with these Terms

    10. Permitted & Prohibited Use

    10.1 Permitted Use

    • Private personal use
    • Commercial food delivery (UberEats, DoorDash, Menulog, etc.)
    • Business use as agreed
    • Rideshare (if you have appropriate rideshare insurance)
    • Travel within Victoria only

    10.2 Geographic Restrictions

    • Vehicle use restricted to Victoria, Australia ONLY
    • Interstate travel strictly prohibited
    • Our insurance does NOT cover interstate use
    • Breach of this term voids insurance coverage

    10.3 Road Use

    • Paved and sealed roads only
    • No off-road driving
    • No unsealed or dirt roads without prior written permission
    • No beach driving

    10.4 Strictly PROHIBITED

    The following uses are absolutely prohibited and void insurance:

    • Subleasing or lending vehicle to others
    • Using for driving lessons or testing
    • Racing, speed contests, or competitive events
    • Towing or pushing other vehicles
    • Transporting hazardous or illegal materials
    • Any illegal activity
    • Driving while fatigued, impaired, or intoxicated
    • Overloading vehicle beyond capacity
    • Carrying more passengers than seatbelts available

    10.5 Smoking & Pets

    Smoking:

    • Strictly prohibited inside vehicle
    • Smoking violation: $150 cleaning fee from bond
    • This fee covers professional deep cleaning and odour removal

    Pets:

    • Strictly prohibited in all vehicles
    • NO pets allowed except registered assistance animals
    • Assistance animals require prior approval and documentation
    • Unauthorised pets will result in $150 cleaning fee
    • Severe pet odour or damage may incur additional charges

    11. Vehicle Maintenance & Issues

    11.1 Your Responsibilities During Rental

    • Check and maintain proper fluid levels (oil, water, coolant)
    • Monitor tyre pressure
    • Keep vehicle clean and maintained
    • Report any issues or warning lights immediately
    • Do NOT attempt repairs without authorisation

    11.2 Mechanical Breakdown

    If vehicle breaks down due to mechanical fault:

    • Contact us immediately (24/7 availability)
    • Do NOT attempt unauthorised repairs
    • We arrange repairs or replacement vehicle at NO COST to you
    • All mechanical repairs are our responsibility, not yours
    • Replacement vehicle provided if repair takes over 2 business days
    • You are NOT charged for genuine mechanical failures

    IMPORTANT: This only applies to genuine mechanical faults. Damage caused by misuse, negligence, or violation of rental terms is your responsibility.

    11.3 Roadside Assistance

    • 24/7 roadside assistance included with all rentals
    • Contact details provided with vehicle
    • Please note: Wait times may take up to 5 hours depending on location and availability of on-road service personnel
    • We are not responsible for wait time delays as these are managed by third-party providers

    BATTERY SERVICE:

    • Flat battery due to renter negligence (lights left on, accessories running without engine, etc.) is NOT covered by roadside assistance
    • A $100 callout fee applies for battery jump-start service in these cases
    • This fee covers the cost of dispatching roadside assistance
    • Battery failure due to vehicle fault (not renter negligence) is covered at no charge

    11.4 Warning Lights

    • If check engine or warning light appears: pull over safely and contact us
    • Do not continue driving if red warning lights appear
    • We will assess if safe to continue or arrange replacement

    12. GPS Tracking & Vehicle Monitoring

    12.1 GPS Tracking Device

    • All vehicles equipped with GPS tracking device
    • Device monitors location, speed, fuel levels, and driving behaviour
    • By renting vehicle, you consent to GPS monitoring
    • Data used for vehicle security, maintenance scheduling, and compliance

    12.2 GPS Tampering Strictly Prohibited

    • You must NOT tamper with, remove, or disable GPS device
    • GPS tampering fee: $500
    • GPS removal voids insurance coverage
    • May result in immediate termination and vehicle repossession

    12.3 Kilometre Usage Monitoring

    • Your Rental Plan may include kilometre limits
    • Usage calculated via GPS data
    • Excess kilometres charged at rates specified in Rental Plan
    • GPS data takes precedence over odometer readings

    13. Traffic Fines, Tolls & Fees

    13.1 Traffic Infringements

    • You are responsible for all traffic fines incurred during rental
    • Fines forwarded to you with $60 administration fee per infringement invoice
    • You must pay fines directly to issuing authority
    • Failure to pay may result in legal action

    13.2 Tolls

    • Tolls are your responsibility
    • Create your own toll account and add vehicle registration
    • If toll invoice received by us: $30 processing fee per invoice applies
    • We strongly recommend setting up toll account to avoid fees

    13.3 Parking Fines

    • You are responsible for all parking fines
    • Same administration process as traffic fines

    14. Cancellation & Refund Policy

    14.1 24-Hour Satisfaction Guarantee

    If you are unhappy with the vehicle within 24 hours of pickup:

    • Full refund of rental payment
    • Full refund of bond
    • This guarantee applies from pickup time

    14.2 Cancellation After 24 Hours

    • Partial refund of week's rent
    • Full refund of bond
    • Refund processed within 14 business days (Monday to Friday, excluding Victorian public holidays)

    14.3 Early Termination

    • You may end rental early with 21 days' notice (or pay 21 days rent)
    • Already paid rental periods are non-refundable
    • Example: If paid for full week and return Day 3, Days 4-7 not refunded
    • Bond refunded per standard timeline (14 business days, Monday to Friday, excluding Victorian public holidays)

    14.4 Extension of Rental

    • Extensions welcome and encouraged
    • Contact us before rental end date
    • Extension subject to vehicle availability
    • Weekly payment schedule continues

    14.5 Our Right to Cancel

    We reserve the right to cancel or terminate rental if:

    • False information provided
    • Breach of these Terms
    • Payment default
    • Vehicle used for prohibited purposes
    • Safety concerns

    In such cases: No refund of paid rental periods, bond used to cover any damages or costs, vehicle retrieved immediately.

    15. Liability & Indemnification

    15.1 Your Liability

    You are liable for:

    • Damage to vehicle not covered by insurance
    • Insurance excess amounts on valid claims
    • Full vehicle value if insurance void due to breach of Terms
    • Damage caused by unauthorised drivers
    • All fines, fees, and charges incurred during rental
    • Loss of income if vehicle out of service due to your actions

    15.2 Our Liability

    We are liable only for: Direct losses caused by our proven negligence; Providing roadworthy, safe vehicle at start of rental.

    We are NOT liable for:

    • Consequential or indirect losses
    • Business losses or lost income
    • Travel disruptions or delays
    • Personal injury (covered by insurance)
    • Loss or damage to personal property left in vehicle
    • Roadside assistance wait times (managed by third-party providers)

    15.3 Personal Property

    • We are not responsible for personal items left in vehicle
    • Items found will be returned (postage at your cost)
    • We recommend removing all valuables

    15.4 Force Majeure

    Not liable for failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control including: Natural disasters, Government restrictions, Pandemics or health emergencies, Civil unrest or strikes, Severe weather conditions.

    16. Privacy & Data Protection

    16.1 Information Collection

    We collect and store: Personal details (name, address, contact information), Licence and identification details, Payment and banking information, Passport and visa (for international customers), Rental history and vehicle usage, GPS tracking data (location, speed, driving behaviour).

    16.2 Use of Information

    Information used for: Processing rental bookings, Insurance purposes, Compliance with legal obligations, Vehicle tracking and security, Communication about your rental, Improving our services.

    16.3 Data Security

    All information stored securely. Access restricted to authorised personnel only. We do not sell or share your information except as required by law or as described in our Privacy Policy.

    16.4 Full Privacy Policy

    See our separate Privacy Policy for complete details.

    17. Dispute Resolution

    17.1 Governing Law

    These Terms governed by laws of Victoria, Australia. Subject to jurisdiction of Victorian courts. Disputes subject to Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) where applicable.

    17.2 Resolution Process

    In event of dispute:

    1. Contact us directly for good faith negotiation
    2. Attempt mediation if negotiation unsuccessful
    3. VCAT or legal action as last resort

    17.3 Australian Consumer Law

    Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits consumer guarantees under Australian Consumer Law. You may have rights that cannot be excluded.

    18. General Provisions

    18.1 - 18.5

    These Terms constitute the entire agreement between parties and supersede all prior discussions. We reserve the right to update these Terms at any time. If any provision found invalid, remaining provisions remain in full effect. Our failure to enforce any provision does not waive our right to enforce it later. You may not assign your rights under this agreement; we may assign to a successor business.

    18.6 Contact Information

    • Business Name: Rent A Car Now
    • ABN: 31995299091
    • Address: 9 Richards Street, Maidstone, VIC 3012
    • Phone: 1800 736 887
    • Email: info@rentacarnow.com.au
    • Hours: 9:30am - 6pm Weekdays

    18.7 Acknowledgment

    By renting a vehicle from us, you acknowledge that you have read and understood these Terms, agree to be bound by these Terms, are legally able to enter into this agreement, and all information provided is accurate and truthful.

    Last Updated: December 2024 | Version: 2.0

    Rent A Car Now (ABN 31995299091)

    9 Richards Street, Maidstone, VIC 3012

    Phone: 1800 736 887 | Email: info@rentacarnow.com.au