Cab operator ‘shocked’ by regulator’s taxi price move

Hailing a cab from the street could soon be cheaper for Victorians.

The Essential Services Commission, which regulates maximum fees for unbooked taxi trips, has announced a review on maximum charges amid complaints the current scheme is not working.

It’s found consumers hailing a vehicle in the street can’t shop around for a better deal, resulting in less competition and fewer pricing options for passengers.

But the review has attracted criticism from the taxi industry, which is still recovering from the effects of lockdowns.

13Cabs chief operating officer, Stuart Overell, says he was “shocked” by the Essential Services Commission’s review announcement.

“It shocked us that the ESC would make such comments considering we haven’t provided them any data to make that decision,” he told Ross and Russel.

“Cabbies haven’t had a fare rise since about 2014.”

Press PLAY below to hear why cab operators are taken aback