Free Car Help in Australia – Where to Look

It is hard to imagine how to get through life without a car. But that situation is a reality for many people across the country. The idea of finding free cars in Australia seems far fetched, but it is possible for those in the greatest need.

To understand how these programs work here is an outline of the process in use by most charitable organisations that help with cars.

How to get a free car in Australia
Receiving a free car or vehicle isn’t easy and where programs do exist, they are generally reserved for specific reasons. Being a low income earner or down on your luck will not result in getting a free vehicle. In many cases they are reserved for low income families with disability situations, victims of violence, victims of natural disasters, medically needy or other unfortunate and serious situations.

Who provides free cars?
Numerous programs or services may provide assistance with obtaining a free vehicle at different times. To locate these organisations, reach out to local charities or churches to ask if they know of any programs in the area. They are generally the best source of information as they have vast networks of non-profits and charities who may participate in providing transportation.

 
Alternative Solutions to a Getting a Car
If you are unable to locate any free car assistance in your area, there are alternative solutions to help you get from point a to point b. Below are a few other ideas to consider.

Low Income Car Loan – Depending on your situation, you may qualify for a low income car loan. There are numerous lenders who provide specialised loans for those dealing with financial issues and need a car.

Benefits Cards – If you are a senior, there are numerous benefits cards, which provide various discounts for transportation. This can include getting lifts to and from medical appointments, food shopping and general outings.

Centrelink Loans – There are certain loans available for Centrelink recipients. Whilst the loan amounts are smaller, they may be enough for an affordable second hand car.

Cars are Donated by Regular People
Many people don’t realise that cars, trucks, vans and other vehicles can be donated to charity. People donate vehicles by coordinating directly with the charitable organisation, assigning full ownership of the vehicle to the program. Vehicles can be donated regardless of their condition, and many organisations will arrange to pick up the vehicle from you.

These vehicles are then used by the charity, on sold where the profits benefit the charity or in certain situations, may be given to families in need.

Condition Evaluation
Every donated vehicle is examined to determine its condition and estimated value. If the car is not in working order, and cannot be easily repaired, it may be sold for scrap. The funds from the sale go directly into the charity’s coffers, providing them needed funds to support their operations and support initiatives throughout the community.

Vehicles that do run properly, and are in reasonably good shape, are often destined for a new owner.

Vehicle Auctions and Charity Programs
In some cases, the vehicles are sold at auction. This allows people to access a car at a price lower than those seen elsewhere. As with funds raised from selling a vehicle as scrap, the money is managed by the charity to support their operations and missions.

However, some organisations may choose to provide a vehicle to a family in need at no cost to them. People can see if they qualify by contacting the charities directly and filling out an application. If the application is accepted, the family may receive an eligible vehicle immediately or may be placed on a waiting list until a suitable vehicle becomes available.

Vehicles distributed through the program may be signed over to the family in need. Each program may have its own rules regarding how the car must be managed.

 
Online Opportunities
There are instances where people will offer up a vehicle for free via classifieds. Whilst there aren’t an abundance of vehicles being offered up for free, it does happen. In addition, people in certain situation may create a crowd funding program which may assist in a family or individual getting a car.

If taking a car off of a person, be sure to check its background as you may be taking on something with debts of bigger issues which will cost you more in disposal fees.

Commercial Programs
In some cases, consumers may locate a program run by a particular business that helps them with their vehicle needs. These programs run by having the car recipient agree to drive a car wrapped in advertising for a particular business. Some programs provide a car directly from the program, while others offer a stipend to help offset the cost of vehicle payments.

It is important to recognise that there often very strict rules regarding how often the vehicle must be driven, and you will likely be responsible for maintenance costs. Additionally, the car may be restricted to particular areas of the country. This may allow it to work as a commuter vehicle, but it may not be eligible to take on a cross-country trip.

In cases where a vehicle is provided by a company, it is important to recognise that it is not officially your property. This means you have no long-term rights to the vehicle. If a stipend is received to offset the costs of a vehicle, you should be prepared to continue payments on your own should the program end.

The above are examples of different ways and programs to try and get a free car or assistance with transportation. Whilst options for receiving a free car are limited, there are certain instances where a family or individual may be able to access one.