Popular rideshare service Uber is implementing a surcharge for rides in Australia, triggered by rising petrol prices stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict. This surcharge amounts to an additional 5 cents per kilometre, but will not apply to journeys made in electric vehicles.
The announcement comes from a joint statement issued by Uber and the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU), confirming the need for this price adjustment. Emma Foley, Managing Director of Uber Australia, highlighted that the collaboration with the TWU aims to provide relief for drivers affected by increasing fuel costs. The temporary surcharge will commence on April 15 and last until June 8, with all proceeds earmarked for the drivers.
Michael Kaine, National Secretary of the TWU, affirmed that rideshare drivers are facing substantial financial pressure due to heightened fuel expenses and deemed Uber’s surcharge a necessary response to this crisis.
DiDi Australia has also indicated that it will increase its own temporary fuel surcharge on rides nationwide to offset the rising operating costs for its drivers. Dan Jordan, head of external affairs for DiDi, noted that the additional charge would support drivers burdened by escalating fuel prices.
Furthermore, some Uber drivers had previously urged the company to take similar actions in response to the circumstances. In related news, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is currently on a diplomatic visit to Brunei and Malaysia with the intention of securing fuel supplies for Australia, commenting on the successful negotiations for mutual oil and gas supply with his Singaporean counterpart.
This adjustment underscores the ongoing challenges in the rideshare industry amid fluctuating fuel prices, and Uber’s response signifies an effort to support its driver partners during this turbulent period.