The NSW Opposition is renewing its calls for the Minns Government to implement QR codes in taxis, following shocking new data showing more than one in four women have experienced inappropriate behaviour in rideshares and taxis.
The figures expose a serious safety failure, with many incidents still going unreported, leaving women without confidence in the system and a real solution for accountability and safety required to be implemented.
The Opposition’s proposal announced in 2024 and backed by the NSW Taxi Council would see unique QR Codes placed into taxis to enable customers to choose to pay via the meter or the QR Code.
The QR Code would be linked to the driver, the vehicle, and the customer to balance the security of payment for drivers with a passenger’s priority of paying the correct fare and having a safe journey.
The Opposition said the government’s slow response to behaviour issues falls well short of what is needed to protect passengers.
Shadow Minister for Transport Natalie Ward said the government is once again reacting too late.
“This is a simple, practical reform that would give women more control and confidence every time they use a ride-share or taxi service.
“More than one in four women experiencing inappropriate conduct is a disgrace, and the government’s response is far too weak, it is all talk and no accountability,” Ms Ward said.
“Government can’t be in every cab, every time — but a QR code can. Training modules won’t stop bad behaviour in the moment. Real accountability will.”
Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Assault Natasha Maclaren-Jones said stronger safeguards are urgently needed.
“Women deserve to feel safe, not vulnerable, when travelling and especially at night,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
“If the Minns Government is serious about women’s safety, it should adopt solutions that actually protect passengers in real time, not after something goes wrong.”
Shadow Minister for Women Felicity Wilson said the figures show the current approach is failing and that strong action is needed.
“Women should not have to weigh up their safety every time they take a taxi or rideshare. This is exactly the kind of simple technology that can restore confidence and improve safety.”
“When over one in four women experience inappropriate behaviour, you know the problem is culture and accountability. QR codes in taxis will provide confidence to women – who just want a safe, reliable trip home.”
The Opposition said QR codes would provide real-time trip verification, improve fare transparency, and create a clear record to support complaints and investigations.