Ride Sharing and Uber

The issue of ride sharing and the influence of Uber, is one that has currently caused widespread legal and social concern. At this current moment, the services of Uber are not regulated under current legislation or rulings (essentially it is illegal). However, from the 30th of October the ACT will be the first jurisdiction to regulate their services (allowing ride-sharing services such as Uber, to operate legally)! Ride-sharing drivers will now be allowed to take smartphone application and phone bookings; but only the taxis will be allowed to pick up passengers from the street and taxi ranks.

Furthermore, criminal history and background checks will now be required for all drivers; driver accreditation requirements and fees will also come into force and some Uber drivers will be eligible for workers compensation. I think this is a massive step in the right direction; as these ride-sharing drivers (not just Uber) would continue to push to find different ways and loopholes to get around the system if the market did not become regulated, therefore, I think regulating this market was an extremely important move, and the right decision. Essentially, it is all about offering more choice to consumers; injecting some vital competition into the market.

Personally, I think that Uber is a revolutionary service that changes the transport industry through its low cost and convenience to customers. It has been growing and growing exponentially, as a direct competitor to the traditional taxi service we are all familiar with. The slow, but steady introduction of these services will shake up the taxi system and hopefully lead to the slashing of costs. ACT is the first jurisdiction to regulate these ride sharing activities; and most importantly, will not be the last!

This video provides a bit of context on what Uber do and how they operate.

Reference for Text:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-09-30/uber-able-to-enter-canberra-markert-from-late-october/6814804

Reference for Image:
https://ticketing.ticketbooth.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/uber-app.jpg

Reference for Youtube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAGQ6Vcuikc