The New South Wales Taxi Council is urging authorities to ban drivers who repeatedly cheat passengers, as part of a wider effort to clean up the industry. Drivers have reportedly charged over $50 for trips as short as two kilometres. The proposed ban is designed to protect travellers and could lead to stricter access and regulation for drivers at one of Australia’s busiest airports.
Online complaints have surged, with the airport’s taxi service receiving a low 1.1-star rating on TripAdvisor. Tired and unfamiliar visitors, often arriving from overseas, have been targeted by drivers who turn off meters, claim false “fixed” fares or select more expensive tariff rates to inflate prices. An increasing number of passengers report paying over $150 for a trip to the central business district, despite much lower standard fares.
The NSW Taxi Council, which represents licensed drivers and operators, is calling for tougher penalties including fines of up to $3,000 for a first offence. It is also proposing stronger enforcement measures such as a centralised driver ID system. This system would prevent dodgy drivers from switching providers and continuing to operate. The council says these steps are vital to prevent a small number of dishonest drivers from damaging the industry’s reputation.
Sydney Airport management has acknowledged the issue and says it is working with state regulators and the council to ensure all taxi services follow correct pricing and service standards. Although Sydney is the focus at the moment, similar problems have been reported at Melbourne Airport where unauthorised drivers, or “touts”, continue to approach passengers inside terminals even with fines of up to $10,000 in place.
In contrast, Brisbane Airport has avoided major issues and reports only a few complaints each year, despite high passenger volumes. Local taxi operators are credited with proactive customer service and effective internal complaint handling that helps prevent problems from escalating.
