Here’s a quick summary

Significant changes to point-to-point transport regulations regarding fare-related offences will take effect from 6 December 2024. NSW Government introduces stricter penalties for taxi and rideshare drivers who fail to comply with fare-related rules, such as overcharging or not using a meter. Repeat offenders risk being permanently banned from the industry.
Original 9news Story

Key Changes in Legislation

Under the new rules, drivers guilty of fare-related offences on two separate occasions will be disqualified from working in the point-to-point transport industry. The offences include:

• Failing to use the meter.
• Overcharging passengers.
• Refusing a fare, particularly for short trips.
• Demanding or negotiating a fare that differs from the meter reading.
• Adding unauthorized surcharges.

Using the maxi-taxi tariff for fewer than five passengers.

Penalties for Drivers

For a first offence, drivers will typically receive a $1,000 penalty notice. Subsequent offences will lead to prosecution, with the possibility of higher court-imposed fines.

Drivers found guilty in court of two fare-related offences will face automatic disqualification from operating any point-to-point vehicle, including taxis and rideshare services.

In cases deemed particularly serious, the Commissioner may proceed directly to prosecution, bypassing the issuance of penalty notices.

Repeat offenders will cop a fine, and be disqualified from the taxi and rideshare service industry, or any type of transport from December 6 (Getty)

Proactive Measures by Authorities

The Commissioner has already contacted drivers who received penalty notices for fare-related offences before 6 December 2024. These drivers have been warned that any future breaches could result in prosecution and, ultimately, disqualification from the industry.

“Two strikes and you’re out” Transport Minister Jo Haylen said (Nine)

What This Means for Drivers

Drivers must strictly adhere to the updated regulations to avoid penalties and disqualification. Even a single instance of overcharging, not using the meter, or refusing a fare could result in significant financial penalties, and repeated violations will end their careers in the industry.

Stay compliant, understand your obligations, and maintain fair practices to ensure continued eligibility to operate point-to-point transport services.

What This Means for Customers

Taxi customers across Sydney and NSW, will enjoy improved protections and transparency when using both taxi and rideshare services. The new regulations aim to:

1. Prevent Fare-Related Exploitation: Customers are less likely to face overcharging, refusal of short-distance trips, or improper surcharges. Drivers who engage in such behaviors risk being disqualified.
2. Enhanced Accountability: Stricter enforcement discourages unlawful practices, ensuring drivers adhere to the correct fares displayed on meters.
3. Improved Trust and Fairness: By enforcing these rules, the industry is likely to foster greater trust among passengers, making taxi and rideshare services more reliable and user-friendly.
4. Consistent Experience: Customers can expect a standardized service without the worry of fare negotiation or unexpected charges.

This change prioritises customer rights and aims to enhance the quality and fairness of point-to-point transport services.