Is Lyft in Australia?

With a bumper-to-bumper ridesharing market in Australia, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to getting to where we need to be. While we have the big names such as Uber and DiDi available on Aussie shores, there’s one big name that currently hasn’t left the lot: Lyft. Find out more with Canstar Blue.

What is Lyft?

As the name suggests, ‘Lyft’ is an American-founded ridesharing app that allows you to catch a lift from Point A to Point B. Like many other ridesharing apps, you can book by simply opening the app, entering your destination and then waiting for a driver to accept your ride and pick you up. Lyft also allows you to add an extra stop along the way, allowing you to pick up a mate or stop for some snacks. 

As well as transportation by car, Lyft offers bike and scooter rental, making for an easier way to zip around town if you want to avoid peak hour traffic. Simply find a bike or scooter on the app’s map, unlock it via your account and you’re good to go. However, both Lyft Bikes and Lyft Scooters are only available in certain cities in America. If neither of those options are for you, you can find  nearby public transport options in the Lyft app, making it a one-stop-shop for all of your transport needs.

There are two Lyft apps available – one for drivers, and one for passengers. Both are free to download on both iOS and Android operating systems.

Is Lyft in Australia?

Currently, Lyft is not available in Australia, with no word on an Australian launch in the future. Despite Lyft not being available in Australia, there’s still plenty of ridesharing services available for when you need to be somewhere. Current ridesharing options in Australia  include Uber, DiDi, Shebah, InDrive, Bot and GoCatch (major competitor Ola shut down its Aussie operations in April 2024). Traditional taxi services are also in operation across major cities and regional areas Australia-wide. 

Where is Lyft available?

Lyft is available in every American state, covering major cities across the country as well as Canada, although only in select cities. Find a full list of locations on the Lyft website.

How much does Lyft cost?

Lyft doesn’t outline the costs involved for booking a trip on its website, although it does offer a fare estimate for when you look to book a trip in advance. Like other ridesharing apps, you can also see an estimated cost of your journey before you book, although the final amount you pay will be dependent on the city, how many stops you make along the way, any peak time fees as well as what type of car you book. Extra fees may include tolls, service fees and third-party fees.

Types of Lyft rides

Like many of its competitors, Lyft offers a number of vehicle options and rides for passengers to choose from, allowing you to rock up in style with a Lyft Black, or with all your mates in a Lyft XL. Here are the types of Lyft rides you can book:

• Lyft: most common Lyft ride, book a four-seater car for yourself.
• Wait & Save: confirm a lower price in peak periods and wait longer for the best driver for your route. 
• Priority Pickup: pay extra for a quicker pickup.
• Green: you’ll be paired with an electric or low emissions vehicle. 
• Extra Comfort: top rated drivers in newer and bigger vehicles.  
• XL: SUV for when you have up to six people.
• Black: the higher end luxury car option, for when you really want to arrive in style.
• Black SUV: a premium version of XL with six seats.