Uber Australia will introduce a temporary fuel surcharge from April 15, adding 5 cents per kilometre for trips in petrol, diesel or hybrid vehicles. The surcharge, which applies to all Uber rides, is designed to help drivers cope with rising fuel costs amid surging global oil prices.
Uber Australia managing director Emma Foley described the surcharge as a short-term measure to support drivers while fuel markets remain volatile. “This measure builds on the national fare update Uber introduced in March, which increased drivers’ earnings across Australia,” she said.
The surcharge will remain in place until June 8, with Uber monitoring fuel prices to determine whether an extension is needed. The company confirmed that the additional fee will go directly to drivers.
Competitor DiDi introduced a similar 5-cent-per-kilometre fuel surcharge earlier this year. Transport Workers’ Union national secretary Michael Kaine noted that soaring fuel prices are putting full-time rideshare drivers under significant financial strain.
“With a TWU application underway in the Fair Work Commission to lift standards across the rideshare industry, we will continue working with Uber and other platforms towards getting fair pay and conditions in place for rideshare workers as soon as possible,” Kaine said.
