In short:
New taxi and ride-share reforms begin 1 March 2026, affecting passengers across Wyndham and Melbourne’s west, with stricter driver penalties and mandatory QR codes introduced.
Taxi Crackdown Coming
New taxi and ride-share rules will come into effect across Victoria from 1 March 2026, introducing tougher penalties for drivers and new protections for passengers — including those travelling to and from Wyndham.
Under the changes, drivers who commit fare-related offences twice within a 10-year period may lose their accreditation under a new “two strikes and you’re out” rule.
Drivers will also be prohibited from displaying taxi or ride-share branding unless they are genuinely affiliated with that provider.
The move is designed to prevent misleading conduct and give passengers clearer information about who they are booking.
Mandatory QR codes will be rolled out in all taxi and ride-share vehicles, allowing passengers to quickly access information about their rights and how to lodge a complaint.
The reforms build on penalties introduced on 1 January 2026 targeting drivers who fail to use the meter correctly.
Further changes flagged for later in 2026 include additional training requirements for wheelchair-accessible vehicle drivers, expanded use of security cameras and audio recording in taxis, and the creation of a public register of disciplinary actions.
Safe Transport Victoria will be conducting compliance and information activities during the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, where large numbers of passengers typically rely on taxi and ride-share services.
For Wyndham residents — particularly those commuting to Melbourne, attending major events or travelling late at night — the changes may affect how drivers operate and how complaints are handled from March onward.
