The NSW government is promising to crack down on dodgy cabbies accused of ripping off customers. The push comes as one company is under scrutiny for trying to avoid a ban from a major airport.

Council of the City of Sydney

The New South Wales government is intensifying efforts to address dishonest practices among taxi drivers by tripling fines for offences such as overcharging, failing to use the meter, or refusing fares. The penalty for such violations will increase from $1,000 to $3,000. This initiative is supported by the NSW Taxi Council, which has reported a rise in complaints, with over 10,000 lodged since 2022 and half resulting in refunds.

The crackdown also follows incidents involving companies like Apex Cabs, which was banned from Sydney Airport for unsafe behaviour but returned under a new name. Additionally, a $60 flat rate for taxi rides from the airport to the CBD will be introduced to prevent overcharging, with the measure set to take effect soon.

NSW government toughens up on dishonest taxi drivers

A crackdown on dishonest cabbies ripping off customers. Yep, I have been, we've been, um, the last couple of times we've come, so we're gadging Ubers now. Taxis end up a lot more expensive than what your Uber does. The New South Wales government tripling fines from $1,000 to $3,000 for taxi drivers caught doing the wrong thing, including overcharging, refusing to switch on the meter or even refusing fares. This is backing in the good taxi drivers doing the right thing, a handful doing the wrong thing now will face tougher fines. We want to send a strong message up front so drivers and all the key players in our industries are well aware that we are serious and committed about excellence in customer service. The New South Wales Taxi Council says it's seen an uptick in reported offences and was behind the push for stronger penalties. Since 2022, more than 10,000 complaints have been reported, 50% of those have resulted in a refund. One company already under fire. Apex Cabs was banned from Sydney Airport for two years over accusations of unsafe behaviour. But had to be banned again after popping back up with a new name, Elite Zoom Cabs. When passengers access a taxi from a rank, you know, they don't usually look at the brand. What they're getting, a taxi. And it's an impact and an impression on taxis. Fine increases are part of a wider state government crackdown. Last month, a $60 flat rate fare was introduced for rides from the airport to the CBD to prevent drivers from overcharging. The flat rate will begin next month. Mikaela Fanto, 10 News.

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