Operators on both sides see no winners from government’s Uber cash grab

NEITHER Uber nor the taxi industry is impressed with the Palaszczuk Government’s new requirements for Queensland’s ride-sharing services.

The state government has passed legislation requiring Uber drivers to obtain a new licence and have their vehicles inspected annually.

They will not, however, be required to install security cameras under the new laws, passed on Wednesday.

Uber launched its ridesharing service in Cairns in midMarch, putting it in direct competition with Cairns Taxis.

Uber Queensland manager Alex Golden said the new fees introduced in the Bill created no additional safety or consumer benefits.

“They just make Queensland one of the most expensive places in Australia to become a rideshare driver,” he said.

“We’re disappointed for Queenslanders who will miss out on the opportunity to make flexible money from ridesharing, not because they aren’t safe and responsible drivers, but because they can’t afford the upfront costs imposed by government.”

Taxi Council Queensland chief Benjamin Wash said the new law was “bad policy for Queensland”, and had let down more than 16,000 small business operators.

“The message to small business is clear: Cut corners in order to cut costs so consumers can save a buck at the expense of workers and most vulnerable in the community,” he said.