Increasing Concerns Over Inappropriate Conduct by Rideshare and Taxi Drivers
More than one in four women have encountered inappropriate conduct from rideshare and taxi drivers, according to data from the New South Wales (NSW) government. This includes being asked sexual questions or subjected to other forms of unwanted attention. In response, the state is taking steps to mandate behavioural training for drivers, aiming to enhance the safety and comfort of passengers.
On Sunday, the Minns government announced that the Point to Point Transport Commission, which oversees taxis and rideshare businesses, would issue guidelines to operators on how their internal systems should handle instances of driver behaviour that threaten women’s safety. These guidelines are expected to play a crucial role in shaping company policies and ensuring a safer environment for all passengers.
New Guidelines to Address Offensive Behaviour
Existing laws already require companies to manage safety risks, but the new initiative will ensure platforms like Uber and Didi define what constitutes offensive and unacceptable behaviour. It will also require drivers to undergo related training. The guidelines will outline how companies should effectively manage incidents and complaints.
Examples of offensive and inappropriate behaviour include unwanted attention, intrusive or inappropriate comments, asking sexual questions, and staring or invading personal space. These actions will be clearly defined under the new rules, helping to establish clearer boundaries for driver conduct.
The need for these guidelines comes amid high levels of harassment reports in rideshares. On Sunday, the government released survey data from last year showing that while a quarter of women experienced some form of inappropriate behaviour when travelling alone in rideshares and taxis, only six in 10 of them reported the incidents.
Legal Challenges and Company Policies
Last month, it was reported that Uber drivers accused of sexual harassment and threatening behaviour were being allowed back on the roads after unfair termination cases. This occurred because the ride-sharing giant was not requiring alleged victims to testify about their experiences.
This pattern emerged after the introduction of laws by the Albanese government last year, which allowed gig economy workers to claim unfair dismissal-style protections. This led to a surge of appeals from Uber drivers who claimed bans on them were unwarranted, and the company’s investigation processes were insufficient.
In multiple cases, the Fair Work Commission ordered the reinstatement of a driver’s access to Uber largely because the company did not offer first-hand testimony from the passenger who complained.
Commitment to Passenger Safety
Speaking about the new state rules, NSW Transport Minister John Graham emphasized that while most rideshare journeys are safe, data suggests women face greater risks of experiencing behaviour that causes discomfort or fear.
“Whether you are travelling around town in the daytime, or out enjoying our vibrant city at night, this initiative will help ensure that every passenger on every rideshare, taxi and hire vehicle journey feels safe and respected,” Graham said.
Ongoing Efforts to Improve Safety
The introduction of these guidelines marks an important step forward in addressing concerns about passenger safety. By setting clear expectations for driver behaviour and improving reporting mechanisms, the government aims to create a more secure and respectful environment for all users of rideshare and taxi services.
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