Roadside assistance is one of those costs people either swear by or think is a waste. The honest answer is that it depends on your car, your driving, and — importantly — whether you already have it without realising.
What it actually covers
Typical cover includes jump-starting or replacing a flat battery, changing a flat tyre, delivering fuel if you run dry, help when you lock the keys in the car, and towing to a repairer if the car cannot be driven. Higher tiers add things like accommodation or a hire car if you break down a long way from home.
Check what you already have
This is the step most people skip. You may already be covered by:
Your new car warranty. Most manufacturers include roadside assistance for the warranty period, and many extend it each time you service with them.
Your insurer. Several comprehensive policies include basic roadside cover, or offer it as a cheap add-on.
Your credit card or bank. Some premium cards bundle it.
Your motoring club membership. If you joined for the discounts, the roadside cover is usually part of it.
Who provides it
In Australia the state motoring clubs are the best known — NRMA in New South Wales, RACV in Victoria, RACQ in Queensland, RAA, RAC and RACT in the other states. Insurers and independent providers also sell standalone cover. Membership with a club often brings extra benefits like fuel discounts and vehicle inspections, which can offset the fee on its own.
When it is clearly worth it
Your car is older or has a history of niggles. You drive long distances or on country roads. You regularly drive alone, at night, or with kids in the car. You would not be comfortable changing a tyre on the side of a road. Or your car has no spare wheel at all — a repair kit is useless against a large puncture.
When you might skip it
Your car is nearly new and still covered by the manufacturer. You drive short distances in a metro area. You are mechanically confident and carry a jump pack. Even then, do the maths: one tow can cost more than several years of membership.
Before you buy
Check the number of call-outs allowed per year, the towing distance limit, whether cover follows you or the car, and any waiting period after joining. Those details are where the real differences sit.