Uber introduces fuel surcharge, increasing passenger fares as global oil prices push transport costs higher

Uber passengers will soon pay more for everyday trips, with the rideshare giant introducing a temporary fuel surcharge as rising oil prices push transport costs higher.

From April 15, trips taken in petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles will include an additional 5c per kilometre fee, which the company says will go directly to drivers to help offset the impact of increased fuel costs.

Electric vehicle trips will not be subject to the surcharge.

Uber Australia managing director Emma Foley said the measure was designed to support drivers as global energy markets continue to face volatility.

“This measure builds on the national fare update Uber introduced in March, which increased drivers earnings across Australia, and reflects Uber’s continued focus on improving drivers earnings,” Ms Foley said.

The temporary surcharge will remain in place until June 8 as the company monitors fuel prices and broader economic conditions.

The move follows a similar decision by competitor DiDi, which introduced a 5c per kilometre fuel surcharge earlier this year, The Courier Mail reported.

Transport Workers’ Union national secretary Michael Kaine said rising fuel costs had placed significant financial pressure on rideshare drivers, particularly those working full-time.

“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,” he said.

Businesses that rely heavily on road transport have been among the hardest hit by increasing fuel prices, which have been driven higher by instability in global oil markets linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

Charities and essential service providers have also reported rising operational costs, with organisations such as Meals on Wheels facing increased demand while managing higher transport expenses.

Transitcare, which provides transport assistance for vulnerable people attending medical appointments, has seen monthly costs increase significantly as fuel prices climb.

The surcharge signals the growing flow-on effects of higher global oil prices, with consumers increasingly likely to notice the impact in everyday services.