Credit Cards with Roadside Assistance in Australia

What is complimentary credit card Roadside Assistance?

Free roadside assistance on a credit card is usually packaged in with its travel insurance benefit, or it might be added for a fee. It can also be purchased as a standalone product through motor clubs like RACV, RACQ or NRMA. Typically, roadside assistance includes these services:

• Flat battery jumpstarts: a technician is sent to your location to jumpstart your car if it won’t start because of a flat or dead battery.
• Changing or repairing a flat tyre: depending on the assistance program, you’ll either have a technician change your tyre or offer a temporary repair to get you to a service centre.
• Delivering fuel if you run out: a roadside assistant will bring enough petrol or diesel to get you to a service station. Some may cover the cost of the fuel, and others may charge it separately.
• Getting you into a locked car: a technician will attempt to open your car roadside, or arrange a locksmith if that’s not possible.
• Minor mechanical repairs or advice: If your car won’t start or there’s a worrying warning light, a roadside mechanic can offer simple repairs or over-the-phone guidance to save you booking in with a service centre.
• Towing: If your car can’t be fixed roadside, or you’ve been in an accident that renders it unroadworthy, towing is provided to take your car to a service centre. There might be a limit to the towed distance, after which fees might apply (for example, up to 50km from the car’s location).

Roadside assistance is a nifty perk on a credit card because it saves on paying for standalone assistance. Since 80% of Aussies experience a breakdown at some point, it can be peace of mind knowing help is always at hand.

Which is better: credit card or standalone membership?

Getting free roadside assistance on your credit card is an easy win that can save you money and stress. Since the cost of towing can top $800 even in metro areas, roadside assistance - especially when it’s included in your credit card - is an investment against emergency expenses.

But, there are some key questions to ask:

• Do all roadside assistance programs come with the same level of assistance?
• Is it cheaper to pay a membership on a credit card, or standalone assistance?
• Will you get the right value out of your roadside assistance?

We’ll do a quick snapshot comparison here, and pull it apart in detail after that. Here’s how each works:

Credit Card Roadside Assistance

• Is often bundled with travel insurance or offered as a value-add.
• Is only accessible when your credit card is active, so if you cancel or miss a payment, the cover ends.
• Usually focuses on basic emergency help like jumpstarts, tyres, fuel, and towing.
• Typically can’t be customised or loaded with add-ons.

Standalone Roadside Assistance (such as motoring clubs / insurers)

• You can choose from different tiers and add-ons such as extended towing distances or caravan/trailer cover.
• Plans are independent, so you can have any other banking products you like.
• Often include member discounts or additional travel perks.

Now that you have an idea of the types of roadside assistance, you can start comparing features and costs to see which one suits you. We’ll cover all that below to make it easier for you.

Calculating the value of credit card roadside assistance

A standalone membership typically costs between $80 to $550 per year, depending on your car type and the level of cover you choose.

If you choose a credit card simply because of its roadside assistance feature, then you’ll need to make sure the card’s annual fee is lower than the cost of a standalone membership. For example, if your card is $158 per year, then it might be cheaper to buy roadside assistance cover for $100 elsewhere…unless your card came with other valuable features.

So, it’s more likely you’ll choose a credit card because of its rewards points, travel insurance, complimentary flights, cashback or other perks. In that instance, roadside assistance is just a great extra if it’s included on your card.

Comparing roadside assistance by features

To give you a better idea of how credit card roadside assistance measures up to standalone memberships, here is a rundown of the common features side-by-side.

Coverage

Standalone roadside memberships like NRMA, RAA and RACV typically offer tiered plans so you can choose from basic options through to comprehensive cover, which would lift limits on features like towing distances, the number of callouts per month, or include cover for caravans and trailers.

Credit card roadside assistance is usually more basic and doesn’t allow customisation. It might offer fewer services overall, however unlimited callouts and long towing distances are typically included.

Flexibility

Standalone roadside memberships are linked to your car or membership, meaning you aren’t locked into any particular credit card or bank account to keep your service active.

Credit card roadside assistance is dependent on your account, so if you cancel the card or miss a payment, your roadside cover is cancelled.

Loyalty and extras

Standalone roadside memberships offer a network of extra discounts, including fuel discounts, deals on movie tickets, theme parks and accommodation, and insurance and travel deals.

Credit card roadside assistance itself won’t offer any particular perks since it’s designed for emergency support, but the credit card it’s attached to might include rewards, discounts or cashback offers.

So, which option is better for you?

If roadside assistance is something you’ll only use occasionally (because you’re not traversing Australia daily), then complimentary assistance on a credit card can be a handy safety net. It’s nice to know you can get help on the road when you need it, because we all do at some point.

However, if you’re on the road a lot and want more features like trailer and caravan cover, a roadside membership might give you more robust assistance - but just be aware you’ll pay a lot more for comprehensive cover.

A guide to roadside assistance on the American Express Platinum credit cards

The following information is taken from the Amex PDS and may change. Make sure to read the PDS before applying.

Roadside assistance on the American Express Platinum Card (Australia) is provided by Chubb Insurance Australia. The PDS contains essential information on the coverage, but here is a general outline to use as a guide only. Terms and conditions do change, so be sure to check the latest PDS.

Coverage limits on Amex Roadside Assistance

1. Roadside Assistance (Up to $200)

Amex’s PDS states that if your vehicle breaks down or is damaged while travelling on a trafficable gazetted public road, Chubb Assistance will arrange and pay for one of the following, up to $200 per call-out:

• On-the-spot roadside assistance, including:
  • Call-out charge
  • Labour for minor roadside repairs
  • Up to 10 litres of fuel (if required)
  • Spare parts are excluded
• Or if necessary, towing to the nearest suitable repairer

2. Replacement vehicle for up to 3 Days

You may be eligible for a replacement vehicle for up to 3 consecutive days if yours:

• Can’t be repaired within 48 hours (excluding Sundays and public holidays)
• And has been towed by Chubb Assistance

❗Important conditions:

• Vehicles are restricted to sedan, hatchback, station wagon or SUV
• The cardholder must be registered as the driver
• You must pay for:
  • Fuel
  • Insurance excess
  • Optional insurance waivers
  • Any additional rental charges
• The vehicle must be returned as directed, or you’ll pay for collection costs

3. Returning you and your passengers home

If your vehicle is towed after a breakdown, Amex’s Roadside Assistance will transport you and your passengers home. This service depends on how far you are from home.

If the repairer is less than 50 km from your home:

• Chubb arranges and pays transport for you and up to 4 passengers back home

If the repairer is more than 50 km from your home:

• Chubb arranges and pays return transport expenses, capped at:
  • $400 total, or
  • 400 kilometres, whichever is less

4. Return or collection of vehicle after repair

Once repairs are finalised, Chubb will organise its delivery to you depending on how far the repairer is from your home (coverage limits may also apply):

Repairer less than 50 km from your home:

• Chubb arranges and pays for a taxi to collect your vehicle

Repairer more than 50 km from your home:

• Chubb arranges delivery of the vehicle by a registered transporter to a depot within 50 km of your home
• Taxi transport to collect the vehicle from the depot is also covered (not including incidental costs like parking)

Are call-outs really “unlimited”?

There isn’t a specifically stated annual cap on the number of roadside assistance incidents in the PDS. But, each roadside assistance event is capped at $200, and policy terms apply that might limit your coverage.

For instance:

• Each incident is capped at $200 for roadside assistance/towing
• All benefits are event-based and subject to policy conditions
• Repeated call-outs for the same unresolved issue may not be covered

Important terms and exclusions

These incidents are not covered:

• Breakdowns at your home address (unless you pay the costs)
• Labour not performed roadside
• Spare parts or replacement materials
• Vehicles used for:
  • Hire or reward
  • Commercial goods transport
  • Racing, rallies, or speed testing
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Deliberate damage or fraudulent claims
• Incidents already covered by another roadside or motor policy

These conditions might impact your coverage:

• You must be present with the vehicle when assistance arrives
• You must hold a valid driver’s licence
• Assistance must be arranged through Chubb Assistance
• Cover ceases if the vehicle is impounded
• Any uncovered costs may be charged to your Amex account

A guide to roadside assistance on the Ampol Fuel card

The following information is taken from the Ampol Fuel Card official website and may change. Make sure to read all Terms and Conditions before applying.

Ampol Roadside Assistance is not a standalone product but optional if you’re an AmpolCard account holder. You need to opt in and pay an extra monthly fee per vehicle to access it. It predominantly services light vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes GVM, while heavier vehicles have separate commercial roadside assistance available.

Pricing & basic structure

Typical cost (this may change at any time):

• Approx. $5.25 per month per vehicle (for vehicles up to 3.5 t GVM).

This fee is charged on top of the normal AmpolCard account fees, and becomes active once the add-on is requested and paid for.

Coverage & services included

Ampol’s roadside assistance is predominantly about fixing minor roadside mechanical problems and basic breakdowns, with call-outs and light help included.

1. Unlimited call-outs for minor breakdowns

You get unlimited call-outs for “minor mechanical breakdowns,” which include:

• Flat tyre inflation or replacement with a serviceable spare
• Jump-starting a flat battery
• Basic roadside repairs where safe and possible
• Fuel delivery or transport to nearest station if you run out of fuel

These are covered under the AmpolCard Roadside Assistance add-on at no extra cost beyond the monthly fee.

2. Towing limits & conditions

Free Towing up to 30 km (Vehicles ≤ 3.5 t GVM)

If minor repairs can’t be completed on the spot, Ampol will arrange towing of the vehicle up to 30 km from the breakdown location to a destination you nominate, at no additional towing charge.

• This 30 km limit applies to eligible vehicles under 3.5 t GVM.
• Towing beyond 30 km is possible but costs above 30 km will be paid by you.

3. Specific assistance limits & costs

These are stated in Ampol’s roadside assistance terms & conditions:

• Key lock-out or lost key assistance: Up to $150 including GST (you pay any excess and replacement key costs).
• Fuel delivery: Fuel to enable driving to a refuelling station if regulations permit, then vehicle taken to station.
• Bog rescue (legally accessible roads): Up to $150 including GST for using specialised gear such as winches.
• Taxi transport after towing: Up to $55 including GST to get you from the breakdown site to your destination (generally metropolitan areas).

Anything beyond these service thresholds is your responsibility and is billed to your AmpolCard.

4. Eligibility conditions

To receive the service you must:

• Be signed up to the Ampol Roadside Assistance add-on on your AmpolCard account.
• Call the Ampol assistance line (e.g., 1800 225 111) and provide your card number, vehicle details and location.
• Have a vehicle that meets the size and registration requirements (e.g., up to 3,500 kg GVM for standard roadside; heavier vehicles have a different commercial roadside plan).

👉 Ampol says roadside coverage typically activates the next business day after signup.

5. Exclusions & when service isn’t provided

Ampol’s roadside terms state that help won’t be provided in cases of:

• Breakdown due to misuse or driver-caused damage (beyond minor issues)
• Vehicle not maintained per manufacturer schedule/li>
• Breakdown where the vehicle isn’t accessible by the service provider
• Driver without a valid licence
• Vehicle partially dismantled, or where attempted repairs were made before service arrival
• Any services performed outside what’s listed, like replacing major parts

Bottom line: Major mechanical failures and significant repair work are excluded, and some services are capped (for example, tow limits and taxi maximums).

Quick comparison of credit card roadside assistance and add-on assistance

As you can see, there are benefits and drawbacks to each type of roadside assistance. However, roadside assistance with a credit card offers similar benefits without any additional cost above your credit card annual fees (unless you go over the call-out thresholds).

Common exclusions in roadside assistance cover

However you get your roadside assistance, there will be a bunch of situations it won’t cover fully. These are called exclusions and limits. You’ll find these details in the PDS of the assistance program. It’s always a good idea to know what you’re not covered for, so you don’t get caught out at the worst possible time.

First, we’ll explain the limits you might come across, and then the exclusion.

Common limits on roadside assistance in Australia:

• Caps on call-outs

  Some plans include unlimited call-outs, and some cap your assistance at a few times a year, or may have a cap on the value of your call-outs (for example, unlimited callouts up to $200 annually), depending on the level of cover you choose. Roadside assistance on credit cards may vary, but as an example, the Amex Platinum range include unlimited call-outs.

• Limits on the towing distance

  Many roadside assistance programs pay for towing costs up to a certain distance, and any travel beyond that to get to a service centre is charged at an additional cost. For example, Amex Platinum credit card assistance covers up to and even over 50km in certain circumstances.

• Waiting periods

  Unlike many memberships, credit card roadside assistance doesn’t have a waiting period. Once your credit card is activated, or your additional cover is approved, you can use the roadside services. Memberships may enforce a 24 or 48 hour waiting period before cover starts.

• Limits on location or accessibility

  Almost all roadside assistance programs have caveats for remote or regional locations, and criteria around accessibility. For example, if your vehicle is inaccessible because of poor terrain or flooding, or it’s in a dangerous part of a road, your roadside service may choose to provide help at their own discretion, and at full cost to you. Similarly, regional locations may have different limits on towing distances or serviceability.

Common exclusions on roadside assistance in Australia:

• Oversized or heavy vehicles (most will cover regular road vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes)
• Pre-existing defects or poor maintenance (if it’s clear your car isn’t up to scratch, they may refuse service)
• Cars that aren’t registered or roadworthy
• Bogged cars or off-road recovery (if you’re stuck in the mud or trapped in rugged or rocky terrain)
• Cars used for business, or rental vehicles (some will cover any car you’re in, unless it’s a rental, but some exclude cars used for business purposes)
• Cost of repairs offroad (any parts or repairs that happen after your roadside assistance will be at your own expense)
• Cars used for motor racing, rallies or other high performance, high-risk activities

Choosing the right roadside assistance cover for you

Ultimately, roadside assistance that comes with your credit card is a fabulous benefit and comes with many of the same features as standalone insurance, but may not suit you if you need something more comprehensive.

Choosing roadside assistance comes down to your driving habits, how much value you’ll get out of the credit card’s other features, and whether the value of the card outweighs any annual fee. Standalone insurance is more expensive, but may offer greater coverage and optional extras.

Options to explore include:

• The American Express Platinum credit cards
• The Ampol Fuel Card