Uber Has Reached A Settlement Of $178 Million With Taxi Drivers In Australia. Uber has agreed to settle a lawsuit in Australia, agreeing to pay A$271.8 million ($178.3 million; £140 million), as reported by a law firm representing taxi operators and drivers.
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Uber Has Reached A Settlement Of $178 Million With Taxi Drivers In Australia
Maurice Blackburn Lawyers initiated a class action on behalf of over 8,000 taxi and hire car proprietors and drivers, contending that they suffered financial losses due to the aggressive market incursion of the ride-hailing behemoth into Australia.
The legal battle was characterized by staunch resistance from Uber at every juncture, as emphasized by the law firm. Uber, however, asserted in a statement that since 2018, it has actively contributed to various state-level taxi compensation schemes, aiming to resolve the lingering issues.
Despite the acknowledgment of a proposed settlement, Uber refrained from disclosing its exact monetary value, citing the need for finalization and subsequent court disclosure.
Supreme Court of Australia’s Victoria state
Initiated in 2019 within the Supreme Court of Australia’s Victoria state, the class action marks a significant success amid previous failed attempts against governments in Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia, as noted by Maurice Blackburn’s principal lawyer, Michael Donelly. Donelly emphasized the tangible outcome achieved for the group members, rather than merely accepting excuses.
However, before any disbursements can occur, the court must approve the proposed settlement, ensuring it aligns with the best interests of the group members.
Headquartered in San Francisco and founded in 2009, Uber operates in over 70 countries and across more than 10,000 cities worldwide. Its global presence has often been met with resistance from taxi drivers, leading to protests in various cities.
In December 2023, Uber emerged victorious in a lawsuit filed by 2,500 taxi drivers in France, underscoring the ongoing legal battles inherent in its operational landscape.
