I check prices and generally book via www.vroomvroomvroom.com.au as they compare prices of Thrifty, Budget, Avis, Europcar and Hertz. I have found the service really good and would recommend them.
cheers
Hi, I think you have done the right thing by asking your CO to confirm if an Australian Police check is necessary in your case.
I was around 30 days short of the 12 month mark when I applied and my CO requested an AFP check from me.
cheers