NSW Introduces $3,000 Fines to Protect Taxi Passengers With Disability

The New South Wales Government has introduced tougher penalties for taxi drivers who refuse passengers with disability, reject valid subsidy payments or overcharge fares. The reforms close a longstanding loophole in the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS) and significantly increase fines to $3,000 for a range of fare-related offences. The changes are intended to improve safety, fairness and confidence for passengers who rely on taxis as an essential transport service.

Under changes announced by the Minns Labor Government, taxi drivers who refuse to accept TTSS payments will now face fines of $3,000. Details of the reforms were outlined in an official NSW Government release, following reports of passengers being refused service or left stranded after disputes over subsidy payments.

Closing gaps in the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme

The TTSS provides eligible passengers with disability a 50 per cent subsidy on taxi fares, capped at $60 per trip. While most trips are paid using a smartcard via Cabcharge terminals, some drivers have previously claimed their vehicles were not equipped to process these payments. The new rules require all taxi service providers in New South Wales to ensure drivers can accept TTSS payments, including subsidies issued by interstate schemes.

The fine for starting the meter before a wheelchair user is safely secured has also increased from $300 to $3,000. The practice has been identified as a contributor to inflated fares, affecting both passengers and public funding. These measures align with broader efforts to modernise and strengthen public transport regulation, as seen in Australia’s wider focus on digital innovation in public transport.

Expanded penalties and passenger protections

In addition to TTSS-related offences, the government has introduced a suite of passenger-focused reforms to address discriminatory or exploitative behaviour. These changes are intended to deter repeat misconduct and strengthen enforcement across the taxi industry.

• Fare-related offences: Fines of $3,000 now apply for overcharging, refusing fares or refusing to use a meter.
• Assistance animals: Fines for refusing passengers travelling with assistance animals or animals in training have been tripled to $3,000, with repeat offences becoming disqualifying.
• Airport travel: A $60 flat fare has been introduced for trips from Sydney Airport to the CBD to reduce fare disputes and overcharging.

More than $1 million in fines have been issued to drivers over the past two years by the Point to Point Transport Commissioner, reflecting increased compliance activity. The reforms sit alongside other accessibility initiatives, including technology-enabled approaches that support independent mobility, highlighted in developments around inclusive assisted living technologies.

Support for regional and cross-border passengers

The NSW Government has also approved extending incentives to ACT-based wheelchair-accessible taxi operators when serving residents of Queanbeyan. Many local passengers rely on these services but have not been prioritised due to eligibility gaps under the NSW Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Disability Insurance Scheme. Transport for NSW and the Point to Point Transport Commissioner are working with ACT operators to ensure fair access and compensation.

Government and industry response

“People with disability have every right to lead their lives fully and the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme helps ensure they can do so.” — John Graham, Minister for Transport, New South Wales Government

“For many people with disability, particularly in regional areas, taxis aren’t a convenience – they are essential.” — Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Regional Transport, New South Wales Government

Industry representatives have also acknowledged the need for stronger enforcement. NSW Taxi Council Chief Executive Nick Abrahim said the increased penalties send a clear signal that misconduct will be addressed, while recognising the majority of drivers who provide professional and lawful service.