Economic regulator releases taxi fare review consultation paper
31 October 2023
The Essential Services Commission has released a consultation paper to commence its 2024 taxi fare review. The review will consider both:
Maximum fares for unbooked taxis (that is taxi services hailed from the street or a designated taxi rank) that begin in Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo or Ballarat.
The maximum surcharge that applies when customers use non-cash options to pay a taxi fare, including credit, debit and charge cards.
Executive Director of Pricing Marcus Crudden says the consultation paper seeks stakeholder feedback on the commission’s proposed approaches to setting the two price determinations.
“Taxis play an essential role in Victoria’s transportation system, enabling many people to participate in the community and broader economy. The commission has a role to protect customers from paying too much, while making sure taxis remain a viable and accessible option for Victorians who need them,” Mr Crudden said.
“This review is an opportunity for all stakeholders, including people who use taxis, drive taxis and own taxis, to have their say, starting with sharing their views on our proposed approaches to setting the maximum unbooked taxi fares and non-cash payment surcharges.”
The commission will make its final determinations on maximum fares for unbooked taxi services, and the maximum non-cash payment surcharge for taxi services, by 31 August 2024.
Safe Transport Victoria oversees compliance and enforcement relating to taxi and commercial passenger vehicle regulation. New regulations came into effect in September 2023 clarifying the requirement for drivers to use the taxi meter for all unbooked taxi services.
