Uber goes back to the future with plans to start accepting cash in Australia

Uber is about to start accepting cash payments, eliminating one of the few remaining advantages enjoyed -sharing giant. The change, which Uber confirmed would be rolled out from July 16, will allow passengers riding with Australia’s dominant transport service to start paying in cash if their driver opts in, rather than electronically via the app. Uber is about to start accepting cash payments across the country, robbing taxis of one of their few distinguishing points. Matt WillisIt could help Uber win the business of older passengers, who are more likely to use cash, but also risks opening the door to payment disputes and driver safety issues that have faced the regular taxi industry. This week, Uber informed drivers that it was changing its contracts to let them accept cash. “These terms only apply when you choose to accept cash-enabled trips,” it told drivers in a message seen . If an Uber driver doesn’t have change, the customer can be given credits in the app for future use. Likewise, if a customer doesn’t have enough cash, they can pay the balance through the app, and payment methods can be switched mid-trip. Fares will still be set beforehand and disputes can be handled via Uber’s customer service. Cash payments will be disabled for trips from Australian airports, and won’t be available for Uber teen accounts and riders with a low rating. Drivers will also be able to see if a fare is to be paid in cash before accepting. In an average week, half the population uses cash, and about 15 per cent of all transactions are settled that way, according to data from the Reserve Bank of Australia. Older and poorer people tend to use cash more than most, but its use is widespread. Research company Roy Morgan found that 7.4 million Australians used Uber in the March quarter of 2025, compared to 4.2 million who used taxis. This masthead has previously reported on rorts involving regular taxis in which drivers have demanded extra cash payments. Uber has largely avoided those scandals, but that is also because its prices are set through an app rather than a metre that can be manipulated. Acting NSW point-to-point transport commissioner Kate Timbs said her team was monitoring all ride-sharing services to ensure passengers in the state were safe as a top priority. “Existing obligations of Uber as a booked service provider have not changed,” Timbs said. “All services are required to be booked prior to the journey with a clear quote or estimate.