What began as a single hatchback parked on a quiet Chippendale street has evolved into one of Sydney’s fastest-growing independent car-rental success stories. Chippendale Carshare Pty Ltd, founded by local entrepreneur Alexander Munao, has now expanded to a 50-vehicle fleet and is on track to surpass $500,000 in annual turnover — an impressive feat for a self-funded operator in one of Australia’s most competitive mobility markets.
Munao, a Sydney local who started the business as a weekend side-hustle, says the idea was born from observing the growing demand for on-demand car access without the cost of ownership.
“I saw how many people were giving up their cars because of rising costs, but still needed one occasionally,” he explained. “That gap became an opportunity — and with digital tools like Turo, it was possible to scale without massive overheads.”
Today, Chippendale Carshare services some of Sydney’s most in-demand inner-city suburbs — including Chippendale, Redfern, Surry Hills, Ultimo, Glebe, Waterloo, Camperdown, Zetland, Newtown and Mascot — offering locals and visitors affordable vehicles within minutes of the CBD and Sydney Airport.
A Local Business Competing with Global Players
Unlike traditional rental companies, Chippendale Carshare operates through a fully self-service, app-based model. Drivers can browse, book and unlock vehicles instantly via the Turo platform, bypassing rental counters, paperwork, and long queues.
Rates start at just $40 per day, with options spanning compact hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs and 7-seaters. Behind the scenes, every vehicle is fitted with GPS tracking, monitored for tolls and mileage, and maintained through a rigorous cleaning and servicing schedule — giving the fleet the consistency of a national operator with the flexibility of a local business.
Munao’s approach blends tech-enabled systems with hands-on management. He personally oversees operations, from vehicle logistics and maintenance to guest support and co-host partnerships.
“It’s hospitality as much as it is car hire,” he said. “Every booking is designed to be frictionless — from the keyless entry to the cleanliness and follow-up care.”
Empowering Locals Through Co-Hosting
A cornerstone of Chippendale Carshare’s growth is its co-hosting program, which allows other Sydney vehicle owners to earn passive income by listing under the company’s operations. Munao’s team handles everything from guest management to cleaning and pricing optimisation.
The model has proven especially attractive amid rising car costs, interest rates, and insurance premiums, offering a simple way for locals to turn idle vehicles into revenue while contributing to a more sustainable sharing economy.
The Bigger Picture
Sydney’s car ownership landscape is changing fast. With parking costs, tolls and insurance premiums climbing, many city dwellers are opting out of ownership entirely. This has fuelled a surge in short-term, flexible car access, positioning operators like Chippendale Carshare at the centre of Australia’s urban mobility shift.
“The goal was never just to rent cars,” Munao added. “It’s about giving people smarter, fairer access to transport — without the barriers of ownership.”
About Chippendale Carshare
Chippendale Carshare Pty Ltd is a Sydney-based independent car-rental business offering self-service, app-based vehicle hire across inner-city suburbs. Founded by Alexander Munao, the company combines affordability, technology and local service to deliver an effortless car-rental experience through the Turo platform.
For more information or to book, visit chippocarshare.com.au.
