Looking to lease your next vehicle through salary packaging? Choosing the best novated lease company can save you thousands in the long run – and spare you plenty of headaches too.
With so many providers promising the “best novated lease deals”, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But not all leasing companies are created equal. Some offer true transparency and flexibility. Others hide fees behind confusing jargon or lock you into overpriced contracts.
So how do you pick a company that fits your budget, understands your goals, and makes the process simple?
Let’s break it down.
What Makes the Best Novated Lease Company?
The best novated lease company will tick all these boxes:
- Competitive pricing with no hidden costs
- Transparent fee structure
- Helpful tools like a novated lease calculator
- Flexible terms (new or used vehicles, short or long leases)
- Easy onboarding with your employer
- Ongoing support throughout your lease
Sound basic? You’d be surprised how many providers overcomplicate what should be a streamlined process.
Let’s explore how to spot a winner from the rest.
1. Clear, Upfront Pricing (No Hidden Surprises)
First rule: If the pricing feels confusing, it probably is.
The best novated lease companies will give you a full cost breakdown – lease repayments, running costs, FBT, and admin fees – all up front.
Be wary of low advertised rates that don’t include:
- Fuel
- Insurance
- Servicing
- Roadside assistance
- Lease administration costs
Use a proper novated lease calculator to see your true out-of-pocket cost each pay cycle.
2. Flexibility to Choose Your Own Car
Not all leasing companies let you choose your dream car. Some only offer a limited selection or fixed dealers.
A strong best novated lease company gives you:
- The freedom to pick any make or model
- Access to new or used vehicles
- Options to buy, refinance, or return the car at lease end
- Support for EVs and hybrids (including FBT-exempt models)
This flexibility matters. It lets you tailor your lease to your lifestyle, whether you’re after a family SUV, a fuel-saving hatchback, or a fully electric upgrade.
3. Support for Used Cars and EVs
Some providers are stuck in the past – refusing to support second-hand vehicles or struggling with EV leasing logistics.
If you’re comparing providers, look for one that offers:
- Competitive novated lease used car options
- EV-friendly packages
- Support for the Electric Car Discount (if eligible)
- A novated lease EV calculator or similar tool
These options unlock major savings while giving you more choices on the road.
4. Salary Packaging Simplicity
It’s not just about your lease – it’s about working smoothly with your payroll team.
The best novated lease company Australia providers offer:
- Seamless integration with your employer
- Help with paperwork and approvals
- Online access to track your deductions
- Ongoing account management and support
And if you’re wondering “can you get a novated lease without employer support?” – unfortunately, no. Novated leases require your employer to agree to salary deductions and sign off on the agreement.
But the best novated lease company will make that process smooth and fast – often working directly with your HR team.
5. Low Fees and Transparent Administration Costs
Every novated lease has admin fees. But how those fees are charged – and what they cover – can vary.
Watch out for:
- Bundled service fees that inflate your monthly cost
- Exit fees for ending your lease early
- Balloon payments that aren’t clearly explained
- Providers that push overpriced insurance or extras
Always ask for a full quote and compare line by line. The best novated lease deal isn’t just about a low weekly cost – it’s about knowing exactly what you’re paying for.
6. Responsive, Local Customer Support
Need to update your kilometres? Want to swap vehicles mid-term? Good luck if you’ve signed with a provider that takes three weeks to reply.
Choose a leasing company that offers:
- Fast, local support
- Real humans who know your name
- Helpful advice on changes, upgrades, and refinancing
- Ongoing customer service beyond signing day
Vehicle leasing isn’t set-and-forget. You want a team that’s there when things change – because they will.
7. Strong Reviews and Long-Term Reputation
Don’t just take the sales pitch at face value.
Look for:
- Verified customer reviews
- Case studies or client success stories
- Established history in novated leasing
- Active local presence in your state or territory
Companies that consistently deliver value will have the feedback to prove it.
8. Access to the Best Novated Lease Deals
The best novated lease deals aren’t always about the lowest payment.
They’re about real value, including:
- GST savings
- Fringe benefits tax minimisation
- Vehicle discounts via fleet buying power
- Running cost packaging for better cashflow
- EV incentives and government rebates
And yes, Vehicle Solutions Australia provides all of the above – plus custom calculators to help you visualise your savings with total clarity.
Need a place to start? See why Vehicle Solutions is a leading best novated lease company in Australia.
Final Thoughts
The right novated lease can save you thousands. But the best novated lease company will do more than just quote numbers. They’ll help you plan smarter, access better deals, and avoid common traps.
So take your time. Use a reliable novated lease calculator. Ask for detailed quotes. And choose a provider that puts your financial goals first – not their margins.