Hiring a car offers you flexibility for certain parts of this trip, but it’s not essential. A car is most useful for the Great Ocean Road section from Melbourne, where self-driving allows you to explore coastal scenery, beaches and rainforest areas at your own pace.
Other parts of the journey, such as travelling between states and visiting Kangaroo Island or Tasmania, are done using a combination of flights, ferries, seaplanes and organised tours.
If you prefer not to drive at all, there are plenty of alternatives. Guided tours, private transfers and scenic flights can easily replace self-drive sections, including along the Great Ocean Road, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without driving. Cities like Melbourne and Adelaide can also be explored on foot, using public transport, or through organised tours.
