What is a Fully Maintained Operating Lease?

A fully maintained operating lease is a smart, low-risk alternative to owning business vehicles—combining finance, maintenance, rego, and support into one predictable monthly payment. With no upfront costs, no resale hassles, and full fleet management by Fleetcare, it's the hassle-free way to keep your business moving efficiently.

When it comes to business vehicles, choosing the right finance option can have a big impact on your cash flow, compliance, and day-to-day operations. That’s where a fully maintained operating lease comes in—a great, flexible alternative to buying or financing a fleet outright.

But what exactly is it? And why are more Australian businesses opting for it?

The Basics: What is a Fully Maintained Operating Lease?

A fully maintained operating lease is a type of business vehicle lease where your monthly payments include the financing of the car, along with registration renewals, manufacturer scheduled service & maintenance costs, replacement tyres and (optional) comprehensive insurance. Running costs for fuel or EV charging and e-tags are included in your monthly invoice as separate expenses. You never own the car; you lease it for a fixed term, and at the end, you simply hand it back and start a new lease with a new vehicle.

It’s similar to a long-term rental, but with added benefits—like simplified budgeting and expert fleet management.

And best of all? Fleetcare carries the residual risk of the car, so you’re not left dealing with resale values or disposal worries at the end.

Real Example: How It Works

Let’s say your business needs five new dual-cab utes (what every tradie and working professional wants) for your field team. Instead of buying them outright, you opt for a fully maintained operating lease.

Here’s what you get:

• Thanks to Fleetcare’s national buying power, we source vehicles at exclusive fleet rates that individual businesses typically can’t access—then deliver them ready to drive.
• Vehicle accessories and fit outs can be included in the lease.
• Your monthly invoice includes the vehicle lease, fuel card management, registration, roadside assistance, scheduled servicing, tyre replacement and more.
• Reminders are sent by Fleetcare to the designated drivers’ when scheduled services are due.
• Fleetcare sends service due reminders to your designated drivers, helping you stay on top of scheduled maintenance. When it’s time for a service, your team can book directly with their preferred servicing agent—no need to go through us. Just let them know it’s a Fleetcare-managed vehicle, and the invoice comes straight to us for payment.
• At the end of the lease term, you return the vehicles and upgrade to newer models—without the stress of reselling or residual value loss.

Key Benefits of a Fully Maintained Operating Lease

• Simplified budgeting: Predictable monthly costs that cover most fleet expenses.
• No upfront capital: Free up your cash flow for other parts of the business.
• Reduced admin: Fleetcare manages servicing, maintenance and compliance.
• No residual risk: Fleetcare owns the car, so you’re not stuck with resale losses.
• Always up to date: Easily upgrade to newer, safer, and more efficient models.
• Potential tax benefits: Lease payments are typically tax-deductible.*

*Always check with your accountant or tax advisor for your specific situation. You can also refer to the ATO’s business motor vehicle expenses guide: ATO – Motor Vehicle Expenses

For more details on how the ATO treats operating leases, visit: ATO – Leased assets and tax treatment

How Is It Different from Other Lease Options?

Unlike other finance options like a chattel mortgage or a finance lease, an operating lease doesn’t involve ownership or residual value responsibilities.

• Operating Lease: You never own the car. Fleetcare carries the vehicle’s residual value and handles all running costs. You return the car at the end.
• Finance Lease: You lease the car and take responsibility for the residual value. You may own or sell it at lease end.
• Chattel Mortgage: You own the car from the beginning and pay it off over time. You’re responsible for all running costs, maintenance and resale.

Want to explore these options further?
Fleetcare – Finance & Leasing Options

Is a Fully Maintained Operating Lease Right for You?

If your business is growing, managing multiple vehicles, or just looking for a smarter way to handle cars without the admin and asset risk—this could be the perfect fit.

• Avoid the risk and admin of vehicle ownership.
• Simplify costs into one easy monthly payment.
• Reduce downtime with proactive maintenance and 24/7 support.
• Keep your fleet up to date without capital outlay.

Fleetcare works with businesses across Australia to build tailored leasing solutions that reduce costs, simplify operations, and keep your people moving.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s find the right leasing setup for your busines

📞 Call us at 134 333

📧 Email us at info@fleetcare.com.au