Founded in 2003 in Mascot, New South Wales, Star Car Wash has grown to become Australia’s largest professional hand car wash and detailing provider. Built around the vision of delivering a premium “new car” feel, the brand is known for its focus on quality, customer service, and convenience, operating across shopping centres, standalone sites, and café-integrated formats.
Star Car Wash offers an extensive range of professional services designed to preserve and enhance vehicle appearance:
Startup costs: A$500K – 700K + GST (covers setup, equipment, and franchise fees)
Network: 160+ locations across Australia | 200+ employees | 1.1million cars serviced in 2024.
Training: Full industry training and ongoing operational support provided; no prior car wash experience or qualifications required.
Additional: Proven, easy-to-run model backed by marketing and leadership support; franchisor assists with securing high-traffic shopping centre sites.
Founded in 1989, Jim’s Car Cleaning is part of the larger Jim’s Group franchise network, one of Australia’s most recognisable brands. Offering affordable, mobile car wash and detailing services, it delivers convenience to households and businesses while leveraging the reputation of the Jim’s Group brand.
Jim’s Car Cleaning services include:
Mobile Detailing – Professional detailing at the customer’s chosen location.
Startup costs: A$25K – 60K + GST | A$700/week + pay per lead fees
Network: 700+ franchisees across Australia.
Training: Comprehensive induction covering mobile systems, operations, and customer management. On-the-job training, as there are no experience/certification requirements.
Additional: Franchisor assists with defining exclusive service territories and marketing support. $1,100/week Pay-for-Work Guaranteed Income
Founded in 1994, Magic Hand Car Wash has grown from a single site in Collingwood, Victoria, into one of Australia’s leading hand car wash networks. Known for its café-style service model and fast, high-quality washes, it serves over 700,000 customers annually across multiple states.
Magic Hand Car Wash services include:
Startup costs: A$ 600K – 1M (depending on site type) | Ongoing fees: 8% royalty + 2.5% marketing fees
Network: 20+ outlets nationwide, washing 700K+ vehicles per year
Training: 3-months induction covering operations, customer service, and team management (some franchisees may complete a longer training pathway).
Additional: National marketing support, proprietary POS system, franchisor assistance with finance, licensing, and ongoing business development.
Founded in 2004 (originally EcoWash Mobile), Nanotek introduced a waterless car wash system using advanced liquid polymer nanotechnology. The brand franchised in 2011 and has since expanded into international markets, positioning itself as an eco-friendly alternative in mobile car care.
Nanotek Car Cleaning services include:
Startup costs: A$180K – 290K | Ongoing fees: 5% royalty + 1% advertising levy
Network: 60+ locations in Australia; 200+ units globally across 12 countries
Training: 2-week induction program covering nanotechnology cleaning system, operations, customer service, and business management.
Additional: Exclusive territories, national marketing and PR support, mobile POS and accounting systems, and a strong eco-friendly positioning as a differentiator.
Founded in 1885 in Augsburg, Germany (as Kleindienst GmbH, merged into WashTec AG in 2000), WashTec has become the world’s leading provider of professional car wash technology. Unlike traditional franchises, WashTec operates on an equipment-based partnership model, supplying gantry, tunnel, and self-service systems along with water recycling solutions.
WashTec Car Wash solutions include:
Digital & Remote Monitoring Tools – Software and apps to track performance, manage operations, and improve profitability.
Startup costs: Varies by system type and size (gantry, tunnel, or self-service) | Royalties: None (equipment-based model)
Network: 80+ countries worldwide; 40,000+ installations globally; 600+ WashTec-supported sites in Australia.
Training: Technical and operational training, including location planning, installation, maintenance, spare parts supply, and marketing support.
Additional: End-to-end partner support, financing options, exclusive access to world-leading wash technology, and a strong sustainability focus.
Founded in 1965, iMo Car Wash is a global leader in conveyor-based automatic car washes. Operating in 13 countries with hundreds of sites, it offers a low-risk operator model instead of a traditional franchise, giving individuals the opportunity to run their own site with minimal upfront investment.
iMo Car Wash services include:
Startup costs: Small refundable bond | No traditional franchise fee
Network: 800+ sites worldwide, 34M+ cars washed annually
Training: Structured induction covering administration, marketing, operations, management, and staff training. Ongoing regional manager and head office support.
Additional: iMo secures prime sites, provides equipment and infrastructure, assists with staff recruitment and training, and offers ongoing business coaching to grow profitability.
Founded in 1995 in Brisbane, Sparkles Car Wash started as a mobile detailing service and has grown into a premium hand car wash and detailing brand, with multiple shopping centre–based locations across Queensland. Known for its boutique positioning, Sparkles focuses on delivering high-quality, personalised vehicle care to customers seeking more than just a standard wash.
Sparkles Car Wash services include:
Shopping Centre Convenience – Locations in high-traffic retail centres, offering service while customers shop.
Startup costs: A$150K – 300K (est.) + GST | Royalties: Varies
Network: Multiple sites across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, expanding nationally.
Training: In-depth training covering detailing techniques, operations, customer service, and staff management.
Additional: Strong boutique market positioning, targeting customers who value quality and convenience. Franchisees benefit from brand recognition, established shopping centre partnerships, and ongoing support.
Founded in 2013 in Australia, Prime Car Wash has rapidly expanded into one of the country’s most prominent premium automated tunnel car wash brands. Built around a high-throughput, technology-driven model, Prime focuses on delivering fast, consistent washes supported by modern site design, subscription memberships, and strong local marketing.
Prime operates a site-based franchise and partnership model, typically securing high-visibility locations in metropolitan and growth corridors. The brand’s emphasis on automation, customer convenience, and recurring revenue has helped drive strong customer adoption in competitive urban markets.
Prime Car Wash offers a streamlined, high-volume wash experience, including:
Automated Tunnel Car Wash – Pre-soak and wheel clean followed by conveyor-driven tunnel washing, drying, and finishing
Unlimited Wash Memberships – Monthly subscription plans designed to increase customer loyalty and predictable revenue
Value-Add Options – Vacuums, mat cleaners, and premium wash upgrades at select sites
Startup costs: Approx. A$2M – A$4M+ (land, construction, and equipment dependent)
Ongoing fees: Royalty and marketing fees apply (site-specific)
Network: 50+ sites operating or in development across Australia, with continued national expansion
Prime Car Wash provides comprehensive pre-opening and ongoing operational training, covering tunnel operations, staff management, safety compliance, customer experience, and local marketing execution. Franchisees receive hands-on support during launch and continued performance monitoring post-opening.
Prime supports franchisees with site selection and development guidance, access to proprietary operating systems, national brand marketing, and assistance implementing subscription-based revenue models. The brand is particularly suited to investors seeking a scalable, automated car wash format with strong growth potential in high-traffic locations.
Founded in 1983 in Australia, VIP Car Care is one of the country’s longest-running mobile car detailing franchise networks. Built around a convenient, customer-first service model, the brand specialises in delivering professional vehicle cleaning and detailing directly to homes, workplaces, and commercial sites.
VIP Car Care operates a low-overhead mobile franchise model, making it accessible to owner-operators seeking flexible working arrangements without the need for fixed premises. Over time, the brand has developed a strong reputation for reliability and consistency, servicing both private customers and fleet clients nationwide.
VIP Car Care offers a comprehensive range of mobile vehicle care services, including:
Mobile Car Wash & Detailing – Exterior hand washes, interior vacuuming, polishing, and full detailing packages
Interior & Upholstery Care – Stain removal, leather conditioning, and carpet cleaning
Fleet & Corporate Services – Regular servicing for business, government, and commercial vehicle fleets
Startup costs: Approx. A$40K – A$70K + GST (vehicle and equipment dependent)
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise fee and marketing contribution apply
Network: 100+ franchisees operating across Australia
Franchisees complete a structured initial training program covering detailing techniques, mobile operations, customer service, quoting, and business management. Ongoing support includes refresher training, operational updates, and access to established systems and suppliers.
VIP Car Care provides exclusive operating territories, national brand marketing, scheduling and job management systems, and ongoing business mentoring. The franchise is well suited to individuals seeking a proven mobile detailing model with national brand recognition and flexible lifestyle appeal.
Founded in 1998 in Australia, Wash Rite is a well-established mobile and fixed-location car wash franchise. Built around convenience and quality service, the brand focuses on professional vehicle cleaning and detailing delivered to homes, workplaces, and commercial sites.
Wash Rite operates a flexible franchise model, ideal for owner-operators seeking minimal overhead and the ability to scale without the constraints of a fixed premise. Over the years, Wash Rite has earned a reputation for reliability and thorough service across private and corporate markets.
Wash Rite Services
Mobile Car Wash & Detailing – Exterior hand washes, polishing, waxing, and full detailing packages
Interior & Upholstery Care – Carpet cleaning, leather treatment, and stain removal
Fleet & Corporate Services – Regular servicing for business, government, and fleet vehicles
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$35K – A$65K + GST (vehicle and equipment dependent)
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise fee and marketing contributions
Network: 80+ franchisees operating nationwide
Training & Support
Franchisees receive comprehensive training in detailing techniques, mobile operations, customer service, and business management. Ongoing support includes refresher courses, operational updates, and access to suppliers.
Additional
Wash Rite provides protected territories, national marketing campaigns, scheduling systems, and ongoing mentoring, making it suitable for those seeking a proven car care model with flexible lifestyle potential.
Established in 2000, Quick N Easy has grown into a leading Australian mobile car detailing network, offering fast, convenient, and professional vehicle care directly to customers’ doors.
Quick N Easy’s franchise model emphasizes low overhead and flexibility, catering to entrepreneurs who want a mobile business without a fixed premise. The brand is recognized for quick, reliable, and high-quality service.
Quick N Easy Services
Mobile Car Wash & Detailing – Hand washes, polish, and full detailing
Interior & Upholstery – Leather care, stain removal, and carpet cleaning
Fleet & Corporate Solutions – Scheduled maintenance for commercial fleets
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$30K – A$60K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing contributions
Network: 50+ mobile franchisees across Australia
Training & Support
Initial training covers mobile operations, detailing skills, quoting, and customer service. Franchisees receive ongoing operational and business support, including access to equipment suppliers.
Additional
Quick N Easy offers protected territories, centralized scheduling tools, national marketing, and business mentoring, providing a proven model for flexible mobile car detailing.
Founded in 2002, Dr Pressure is a specialist in mobile pressure washing and vehicle detailing services. Its franchise model focuses on convenience, quality, and environmentally conscious cleaning.
Dr Pressure franchises offer low-overhead mobile operations, allowing owners to work independently while leveraging a trusted brand name. The network has built a strong reputation for professional and consistent service.
Dr Pressure Services
Mobile Vehicle Cleaning – Exterior hand wash, pressure washing, and polishing
Interior Detailing – Vacuuming, leather care, and stain removal
Commercial & Fleet Services – Maintenance for company vehicles
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$35K – A$70K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing contributions
Network: 40+ mobile franchisees nationally
Training & Support
Franchisees receive training in detailing, mobile operations, customer service, and business management, with ongoing support, refresher training, and supplier access.
Additional
Exclusive territories, operational tools, national marketing campaigns, and ongoing business mentoring make Dr Pressure ideal for entrepreneurs seeking a flexible, environmentally conscious detailing franchise.
Launched in 2005, Car Care Mobile Detailing is an Australian franchise network delivering premium vehicle cleaning and detailing services directly to customers.
The brand’s low-overhead mobile model is ideal for owner-operators seeking independence, flexibility, and scalability. Car Care Mobile Detailing is recognized for consistent, professional service across private and fleet customers.
Car Care Mobile Detailing Services
Mobile Car Wash & Detailing – Exterior and interior care, waxing, polishing
Interior & Upholstery – Leather conditioning, carpet cleaning, and stain removal
Fleet & Corporate Services – Scheduled services for business vehicles
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$40K – A$75K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise fee and marketing contribution
Network: 60+ franchisees nationwide
Training & Support
Comprehensive initial training includes detailing techniques, mobile operations, customer service, quoting, and business management. Ongoing support covers refresher training, operational updates, and supplier access.
Additional
Car Care Mobile Detailing provides protected territories, national marketing, scheduling tools, and ongoing mentoring. The franchise suits individuals seeking a proven mobile model with lifestyle flexibility.
Founded in 1997, Medallion Hand Car Wash has built a reputation for premium hand car washing and detailing services across Australia. The brand focuses on convenience, quality, and a customer-first approach.
Medallion Hand Car Wash franchises operate low-overhead mobile and fixed-location models, catering to owner-operators who want flexible work arrangements with strong brand support.
Medallion Hand Car Wash Services
Mobile & Fixed Car Wash – Exterior hand washing, polishing, and detailing packages
Interior Detailing – Leather care, carpet cleaning, and stain removal
Fleet & Corporate Services – Regular servicing for commercial and government fleets
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$35K – A$70K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing fees
Network: 50+ franchisees nationally
Training & Support
Initial training includes detailing techniques, business management, mobile operations, and customer service. Ongoing support includes refresher courses, supplier access, and operational updates.
Additional
Exclusive territories, national marketing, scheduling systems, and ongoing mentoring make Medallion Hand Car Wash ideal for those seeking a trusted and flexible car care franchise.
Established in 2003, Wink Car Detailing provides professional, mobile vehicle cleaning and detailing services to both private and corporate clients across Australia.
Wink Car Detailing’s franchise model focuses on low overheads, mobility, and flexibility, making it accessible to owner-operators who value independence and strong brand recognition.
Wink Car Detailing Services
Mobile Car Wash & Detailing – Exterior washes, waxing, polishing, full detailing
Interior & Upholstery – Carpet and leather care, stain removal
Fleet & Corporate – Maintenance programs for business fleets
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$30K – A$65K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing contributions
Network: 40+ franchisees nationwide
Training & Support
Franchisees receive training in detailing, mobile operations, customer service, and business management. Ongoing support includes operational guidance, refresher courses, and access to suppliers.
Additional
Wink Car Detailing provides exclusive territories, national brand marketing, scheduling systems, and mentoring, offering a flexible and proven mobile detailing model.
Since 1999, Silver Sponge Car Wash has offered high-quality mobile and fixed-location vehicle cleaning services across Australia. Its brand reputation emphasizes reliability, professionalism, and customer convenience.
Silver Sponge Car Wash franchises operate a low-overhead model that allows owners to run a flexible mobile or fixed-location business while benefiting from national brand recognition.
Silver Sponge Car Wash Services
Mobile & Fixed Car Wash – Exterior washing, polishing, and detailing
Interior & Upholstery Care – Leather conditioning, stain removal, carpet cleaning
Fleet & Corporate Services – Routine cleaning for business fleets
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$35K – A$70K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing contributions
Network: 50+ franchisees nationwide
Training & Support
Franchisees undergo detailed training in cleaning techniques, customer service, mobile operations, and business management. Support continues with refresher courses, supplier access, and operational updates.
Additional
Protected territories, scheduling tools, national marketing campaigns, and ongoing mentoring make Silver Sponge Car Wash a strong option for those seeking a flexible mobile detailing franchise.
Founded in 2001, Tommy’s Express Car Wash has become a recognized franchise network for fast, professional vehicle cleaning services. The brand emphasizes speed, convenience, and high-quality detailing.
Tommy’s Express Car Wash franchises are ideal for owner-operators seeking a low-overhead mobile or express car wash model with strong brand support and national recognition.
Tommy’s Express Car Wash Services
Mobile & Express Car Wash – Exterior washes, polishing, and detailing
Interior & Upholstery Care – Carpet cleaning, stain removal, leather treatment
Fleet & Corporate Services – Regular cleaning programs for commercial vehicles
Investment & Network
Startup costs: Approx. A$30K – A$65K + GST
Ongoing fees: Weekly franchise and marketing contributions
Network: 60+ franchisees nationally
Training & Support
Franchisees receive structured training in car detailing, mobile operations, customer service, and business management. Ongoing support includes refresher training, operational updates, and supplier access.
Additional
Tommy’s Express Car Wash provides exclusive territories, scheduling systems, national marketing, and ongoing mentoring, offering a proven model for flexible mobile car care operations.
Car wash franchises in Australia offer a compelling balance of low entry barriers, recurring demand, and scalable growth potential. Entrepreneurs can choose between automated systems, which are ideal for high-traffic, volume-driven locations, or mobile services, which provide flexibility, lower startup costs, and direct-to-customer convenience.
Both models benefit from structured support, ongoing coaching, and opportunities to expand into value-added services such as detailing. With strong brand backing and alignment with eco-friendly trends, car wash franchises continue to be an attractive and resilient option for investors seeking a service-based business with long-term growth potential.
Explore Your Options
Ready to take the next step? Browse our curated list of the best car wash franchise opportunities in Australia and discover the ideal business model to start your entrepreneurial journey.
Profitability varies by model, but the strongest performers include; Jim’s Car Detailing, Pulse Car Cleaning, Nanotek, Star Car Wash, Magic Hand Carwash, IMO Car Wash, and WashTec.
Mobile franchises (Jim’s, Pulse, Nanotek) are profitable due to lower capital costs and flexible operations. However, fixed-site or automated models (IMO, WashTec, Star) can generate higher turnover through volume if located in high-traffic areas.
On average, training lasts between 2 and 6 weeks, depending on the complexity of services offered. Importantly, most franchises emphasise that no prior industry experience is required, as training equips operators with all the skills needed to deliver professional results and run a successful business.
Car wash franchises generally require lower startup costs, fewer staff, and simpler operations than QSR outlets. They benefit from recurring demand as vehicle cleaning is a repeat service, often with lower inventory and supply chain risks.
Australian car wash franchises typically offer ongoing operational support to help franchisees run their business successfully. This includes site selection guidance, equipment setup, marketing assistance, staff recruitment and training, and access to business systems such as POS and accounting tools. Many franchises also provide continuous coaching and troubleshooting, ensuring operators can address challenges, optimise performance, and grow their business with expert backing.
You must receive a Franchise Disclosure Document and a copy of the Franchise Code of Conduct. Legal and financial advice is strongly recommended before signing any agreement.
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