Hundreds of Uber drivers have walked out of their vehicles on strike over fears the ride-hailing giant is exploiting them.
Protests were held in all Australian capitals last week, with hundreds of drivers gathering outside airports in Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne.
In footage from the Melbourne protest, security guards can be seen keeping a close eye on protesters as they shouted “unfair” and held up signs.
The protests are a response to Uber cutting fares nationwide by an average of three percent, with drivers saying this will have a direct impact on their income.
Drivers say the move will result in fares being cut by as much as 30 percent in some areas because of the way the app will calculate fares.
Travel-weary passengers trying to get home after long flights were told to expect delays after drivers pulled the plug on their services in protest last week.
Protesters were reportedly encouraging Uber drivers arriving at the airport to cancel their planned trip and join the demonstrations.
As a result of the strike, passengers saw the price of their Uber rides double because there were fewer drivers on the road.
Hundreds of Uber drivers have abandoned their vehicles to strike over fears that the transport giant is exploiting them (pictured: protests at Melbourne Airport)
The protests left some Australians unimpressed, with several arguing that Uber’s prices were too high in comments on TikTok footage of the protests.
“From Southern Cross Station to the airport it would have cost me $70… how much more do they want me to pay?” wrote one woman.
“It’s cheaper to pay for parking or take the $25 Skybus… what do they offer that justifies such high rates?” commented a second.
A third said: “When you all learn to drive without giving me whiplash then maybe you can ask for more. Your driving skills are amazing.”
Another added: “On behalf of all other Melbourne drivers, please remain on strike. The roads have not been this safe in a long time.”
Some found it ironic that drivers were protesting for their rights when the presence of Uber has caused difficulties for many taxi drivers.
“Hypocrites, you have killed the taxi industry by choosing to use Uber,” said one.
However, others applauded the drivers for demanding better wages from the app.
“It’s the era of slavery via Uber,” said one.
“Keep up the good work guys. Uber needs to be taught a lesson,” a second agreed.
Uber drivers were expected to receive a pay increase of up to $5.39 an hour, or $95 a week, when the Closing the Loopholes Bill goes into effect in November.
The bill sets minimum standards for workers on digital labour platforms.
However, Uber drivers are unlikely to feel the benefits after the ride-hailing giant decided to cut fares for passengers.
This comes as drivers complain of having to work 12-hour days and sleep in their cars amid rising petrol prices and cost-of-living pressures.
Ride-sharing network CEO and Uber driver Shane Millsom has accused Uber of exploiting its drivers and making it impossible for them to earn a good living.
“Not only have they reduced fares for passengers, but they have also reduced wages for drivers. Uber is fully aware that many drivers have no other choice,” he said.
‘Rideshare drivers are not faceless corporations; they are human beings who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.’
In footage from the protest in Melbourne, security guards are seen keeping a close eye on protesters as they shouted “unfair” and held up signs (pictured)
In an email sent on August 21, drivers were informed that the new pricing system would take into account the origin of the trip and the time of day.
Uber said there will be no changes to minimum fares or dynamic pricing.
The ride-sharing app said it would “match riders with the best ride at the best price.”
“As always, passengers will be able to see the total fare cost up front before requesting a ride. They will also receive a full breakdown of these new fare components on their email receipt and in the app,” a spokesperson said.
‘This new approach will allow Uber to better balance both sides of our market, ensuring there are enough drivers in the right places to deliver a seamless experience for passengers.’
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) is now encouraging Uber drivers to take part in consultation groups to discuss changes to the Closing the Loophole Bill.
TWU national secretary Michael Kaine said transport workers needed a safety net.
“Consultation with rideshare drivers and the industry has begun and can now be formalised through the Road Transport Advisory Group which will report to the Commission’s new Road Transport Expert Panel to set appropriate standards,” he said.
