Taxi Overcharging
Meter Manipulation
In Australian cities, some taxi drivers manipulate meters by taking longer routes or tampering with the device, leading to inflated fares. For instance, a standard 10-kilometer ride in Sydney or Melbourne might cost A$20-A$30 but could be charged at A$50 or more, especially during peak hours or from airports.
- Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola for transparent pricing and GPS tracking.
- Opt for metered taxis with visible, sealed meters and check for official accreditation from state transport authorities.
- Pre-arrange fares for airport transfers through hotel services, which often cost A$15-A$25 extra but ensure fixed rates.
Fake Airport Transfers
Unauthorized drivers at major airports like those in Sydney or Melbourne pose as official transfer services, offering rides at A$40 for a trip that should cost A$20-A$30, then demanding extra for 'tolls' or 'luggage' that aren't legitimate.
- Book transfers in advance through airport websites or apps, which start at A$15 and include insurance.
- Ignore unsolicited offers and head to official taxi ranks marked with state government logos.
- Verify driver credentials via the app or by checking for a valid Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) license plate.
Accommodation Booking Frauds
Phishing for Rentals
Scammers create fake listings on platforms like Stayz or Airbnb for popular areas such as the Great Barrier Reef or Blue Mountains, asking for upfront payments of A$200-A$500 via bank transfer, then disappearing or providing non-existent properties.
- Use verified booking platforms and pay with credit cards for chargeback options, avoiding direct bank transfers.
- Read recent reviews and cross-check property details with Google Street View.
- Contact the platform's Australian support team if a listing demands payment outside the system, as local laws require secure transactions.