We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it! If you only need car insurance for a brief period, such as a month, a week, or even one day, there aren't any car insurers that specifically offer this kind of product. However, you can still get cover! Here's how: If you're after car insurance for a short-period of time for whatever reason, this is probably the simplest way to get cover for your vehicle.
Whilst you'll need to hack a small cancellation fee, it's probably better than paying a year's worth of premiums. There are policies that provide immediate cover if you need to drive a different vehicle for a short period of time. Here are some options:
So you already know that Australian car insurers don't offer temporary car insurance. Instead, you will have to choose one of the four following options to get the cover you need:
Pay-as-you-drive policyThis type of policy lets you only pay for the distance you drive, while still extending comprehensive car insurance benefits for an ongoing period. You might think of it as a temporary car insurance that works based on distance driven, instead of for a period of time.
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Another option is to select a standard car insurance policy of your choice and pay your premiums monthly or fortnightly. This can be a fast and effective way of finding the right type of cover for your needs and accessing the full range of car insurance benefits. Once you no longer need cover, simply cancel the policy.
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If you’re borrowing a relative or friend’s car for a temporary period, you could ask them if they would consider adding you to their car insurance policy as a listed driver.
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This option may be more cost-effective than you think. Many credit cards will let you pay for rental cars with reward points, and there are many car rental discounts available, such as free upgrades, free days at no extra cost and straightforward price reductions. Some credit cards also offer complimentary rental car insurance cover, or you can purchase the cover you need from the rental company.
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Compare some car hire options here Short-term car insurance is available to suit the needs of a wide range of Australian drivers. If you hold a valid licence that allows you to drive in Australia, you’ll generally be able to qualify for cover. However, special eligibility requirements may apply depending on the temporary car insurance option you choose. For example, if a friend or relative is going to add you to their policy as a listed driver, you’ll need to make sure that you list the correct person as the main driver of the vehicle. In addition, some insurers may refuse cover to drivers of specific ages, such as those under 18 years of age or senior motorists. Check with your insurer for full details of any eligibility requirements that apply. It is not possible to find dedicated comprehensive or third-party property car insurance policies that cover you for a set period of six months. Instead, the most cost-effective way to get the cover you need can be to buy a 12-month policy and then simply cancel it after six months. However, make sure you look closely at the early cancellation fees and terms set out in the policy before deciding whether this option will save you money. Issues to be wary of include:
The general exclusions that apply to ordinary car insurance policies also apply to short-term car insurance. For example, you will not be covered if:
You can find out more about what car insurance won’t cover in our guide to car insurance exclusions. Which short-term car insurance option is right for you? To work this out you’ll need to answer a few simple questions:
Once you know which of the four options is the best fit for you, it’s time to start comparing quotes and policy features across multiple insurers. We're freeYou pay the same as buying directly from the car insurer. Better still, we regularly run exclusive deals that you won't find on any other site – plus, our tables make it easy to compare policies. We're expertsOur team of car insurance experts have researched and rated dozens of policies as part of our Finder Awards and published 330+ guides to make it easier for you to compare. We're independentUnlike other comparison sites, we're not owned by an insurer. That means our opinions are our own and we work with lots of car insurance brands, making it easier for you to find a good deal. We're here to helpSince 2014, we've helped 300,000+ people find car insurance by explaining your cover options, simply and clearly. We'll never ask for your number or email. We're here to help you make a decision.
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