Top Budget Airlines for Domestic Travel in Australia (2025 Guide)

Australia is a massive country, and whether you are travelling from Sydney to Melbourne for a weekend or on an outback adventure to Alice Springs, flying is usually the best option for getting around. As the competition between airlines has increased, domestic air travel has become cheaper than before and with no reduction in comfort or safety.

At Doko Tours, we understand the significance of value when touring Australia. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, getting the right budget airline can save you a lot while still having a comfortable flying experience. In this blog, we bring to the fore the best domestic budget airlines in Australia, their unique features, advantages, and tips on how to book.

1. Jetstar Airways – Qantas-Owned Affordability

Jetstar is probably Australia's most recognised low-cost carrier, and is well-liked by locals. Jetstar, as part of Qantas, gives you the level of safety and reliability you would expect from Qantas, but at a much cheaper price. 

Reasons to Fly Jetstar?

• Large Network: Jetstar is the only true domestic low-cost airline operating to more than 20 destinations across capital cities and regional locations.
• Value for Money: Regularly have many promotions and there is an extensive array of early-bird fares available.
• Flexibility: There is a real variety of fares available from basic to much more complex arrangements.

Insider Tip from Doko Tours:

Jetstar's "Friday Fare Frenzy" deals are great for last minute weekend getaways. So be sure to sign up to their newsletter, or follow Doko Tours so you don't miss an announcement!

2. Virgin Australia – More Than a Low-Cost Carrier

While a full-service airline in a technical sense, Virgin Australia has priced aggressively on many domestic routes to match the low-cost carriers. The carrier combines affordability with some extra frills and is a great in-between choice.

Why Fly Virgin Australia?

• Free Carry-On Baggage: Included in most fares up to 7kg.
• Frequent Flyer Program: Velocity Points are earned even on low-cost tickets.
• Improved Seating Comfort: A little more leg space than ultra-low-cost carriers.

Best For:

Travellers who require a little more comfort and freedom but still on a budget.

3. Rex Airlines (Regional Express) – A Budget Travel Rising Star

Traditionally known for serving regional towns, Rex Airlines has expanded into major city routes like Sydney–Melbourne and Brisbane–Sydney, offering surprisingly low fares with reliable service.

Why Choose Fly Rex?

• Perfect for Regional Destinations: Think Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga or Mount Gambier.
• Cheap Fares: Generally cheaper than Jetstar on main routes.
• Free Checked Baggage: Most tickets will include 15–23kg of checked baggage, which is rare for a budget carrier.

Pro Tip: Rex flights do not have the same crowding as some other carriers, so can work well in peak season when hassle is being avoided.

4. Bonza – The Newcomer to Watch

Australia's newest low-cost carrier, launched in 2023, Bonza is disrupting the market by trying to link previously underserved regional destinations directly, instead of routing everyone through big hubs.

Why Fly Bonza?

• Unique Routes: Non-stop flights between small cities and smaller towns not covered by other airlines.
• Ultra-Low Prices: Engineered with a price-first mindset.
• App-Based Booking: Booking is via the Bonza app only, which reduces costs and makes it easier.

Best Suited For:

"Daring" travellers who want to check out desolate destinations like Rockhampton, Mildura, or Townsville.

5. QantasLink - Regional fare affordability with Qantas perks

QantasLink is not usually thought of as a low-cost carrier, but regularly has competitive pricing on regional flights - particularly if booked in advance or during a promotional phase.

Why Fly QantasLink?

• High Safety and Service Standards
• Access to Qantas Lounge (for higher classes of fare)
• Frequent Flyer Benefits: Points and status credits for Qantas Frequent Flyers.

Consider This:

If you're a regular regional traveller who likes safety and punctuality but still appreciates affordable fares, QantasLink is a good option.

Booking Tips from Doko Tours

To really reap the benefits of low-cost carrier travel, remember the following insider tips:

• Book Early: The best fares on most low-cost airlines are available 6–8 weeks in advance. 
• Look out for Sales: Register for airlines' and travel agents' fare alerts and newsletters such as Doko Tours. 
• Be Flexible With Your Dates: Travel by air can periodically be much cheaper mid-week compared to weekends. 
• Pack Smart: Most tariffs will not include checked luggage using low-cost fares. Pack lightly, and this can provide more savings.
• Read the Fine Print: Often these low-cost airlines will apply additional fees for seat selection, boarding priority, or printing your boarding passes at the airport.

Conclusion

The era of low-cost airlines is well and truly upon us. Travelling within Australia has never been easier, with a growing number of airlines offering low-cost travel options. Whether you are off on a weekend city getaway, visiting family in the bush, or embarking on an adventure to the outback to experience its natural wonders, there is a low-cost airline just sitting there, waiting for you to hop on board.

At Doko Tours, we find it our mission to help Australian travellers to get value for their travel dollar. We can help with flight bookings to developing travel packages, and our staff are ready to make your local travel as easy, affordable, and memorable as possible.  

Ready to fly smart throughout Australia? Contact Doko Tours today and let us assist you in taking off without costing an arm and a leg.