Taxi and hire car operators across the west are calling on the state government to regulate ride-sharing service Uber.
Lucky Saini, of Silver Corporate Cabs, Angel Kalsi, of Goldwing Executive Cars, and Executive Chauffeurs’ Qaiser Cheema say business is down by as much as 50 per cent because of the popular US-originated service.
In Melbourne, Uber has two services: Uber Black and UberX. Uber Black operates within Victoria’s regulatory framework and has accredited drivers using licensed vehicles. UberX does not comply with Victorian law – its vehicles are not licensed and many of its drivers are not accredited.
Mr Saini, from Tarneit, said UberX was operating illegally and creating an uneven playing field for taxi and hire car operators, who are bound by licences and regulations.
He said, in particular, he was concerned that many of its drivers were not registered for GST and did not follow the same regulations the rest of the taxi industry must comply with.
“They’re driving a normal car and have only comprehensive insurance, which does not cover you for commercial transactions,” Mr Saini said.
“The driver has no police check; public safety is at risk.”
Mr Kalsi, of Caroline Springs, said the legislation should be the same for all companies.
“Almost 50 per cent of our work has gone,” he said.
The drivers recently shared their concerns with Werribee MP Tim Pallas, who said the government was placing a strong emphasis on getting all Uber drivers accredited.
Mr Pallas said the Taxi Services Commission was fining “any UberX drivers they catch”.
“The Andrews Labor government believes in a level playing field and recognises the taxi industry has been through significant change and upheaval,” Mr Pallas said.
“We have established a taxi and hire car ministerial forum, which will consider a range of issues, including how to deal with ride-share services like Uber.
Driver accreditation is there to protect the public and ensure everyone behind the wheel of a taxi or hire car in Victoria is a fit and proper person to be providing that service.”
