Avis Budget Group Inc. announced today that Avis and Budget have been selected as Qantas Frequent Flyer's exclusive car rental partners for its 7.3 million members. The agreement offers members of the southern hemisphere's largest and most popular airline loyalty program preferred pricing on a variety of Avis and Budget late-model vehicles.

"Travel partnerships attract new customers and generate incremental bookings," said Patric Siniscalchi, executive vice president of international operations at Avis Budget Group. "This agreement adds value to Qantas' frequent flyer program and enhances the customer's travel experience as well as brand loyalty."

Qantas Frequent Flyer members can use Avis and Budget services, while earning Qantas Frequent Flyer points. Points can also be redeemed for Avis and Budget rental vouchers through the online Qantas Frequent Flyer Store located at www.qantas.com.

"We're pleased to expand our relationship with Avis Budget Group while complementing our Qantas Frequent Flyer offering," said Simon Hickey, chief executive of Qantas Frequent Flyer. "Aligning ourselves with such world-class brands is a testament to the program's success and why we are poised to reach eight million members by the end of next year."

Established in 1987, Qantas Frequent Flyer is the leading airline loyalty program in Australia, with more than seven million members, and a global redemption network supporting the Qantas Group. It is the only loyalty program in Australia which offers members the ability to combine points from flying, credit or charge card spend and everyday grocery shopping directly into one account.

"Qantas has been a valued partner for several years and members of Qantas' Frequent Flyer program have realized the benefits of renting with Avis and Budget, whether on the mainland or internationally," said George Proos, managing director of Avis Budget Group Australia. "Recognition as the exclusive car rental partners for Qantas Frequent Flyer is a testament to the hard work of Avis and Budget employees around the globe. We look forward to continuing to provide an outstanding rental experience."

Avis and Budget debuted as Qantas Frequent Flyer car rental partners in 2002.