Uber accused of risking passenger and community safety by Rideshare Drivers Network

Uber has been accused of risking the safety of its passengers and the wider community by the Rideshare Drivers Network (RDN), after decreasing pay rates.

This directly affects public safety by “forcing drivers to work longer hours, leading to fatigue and increased risk of accidents on our roads”, an RDN spokesperson said.

The decision to cut driver pay is also a “crushing blow” amid a cost of living crisis, the RDN spokesperson said.

“As the cost of living crisis deepens, Uber has delivered a crushing blow to its drivers, slashing pay rates by up to 30 per cent and leaving many earning well below minimum wage,” they said.

“This drastic move comes at a time when Australians are already reeling from skyrocketing insurance, vehicle prices, housing, and food costs.”

The RDN has demanded that Uber take immediate action to reverse the pay cuts and “recognise drivers as workers entitled to the same rights and protections as other employee drivers”.

“Rideshare drivers are not faceless businesses,” Rideshare Drivers Network secretary Shane Millsom said.

“They are human beings who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

“By denying drivers a fair wage, Uber is not only hurting individuals but also undermining the Aussie fair go.

‘Fair and equitable’

Uber maintains the reduced fares will result in more demand for rides on the platform, and will create more earning opportunities for drivers.

However, Millsom previously told 7NEWS.com.au this was not the case when fares were reduced in the past.

“They could reduce the rates without reducing driver pay,” Millsom said.

The new cheaper fares came into effect on August 7, with the new service fee set to be applied from September 1.

“As ever, our aim is to continue providing quality, safe and affordable rides for Aussie passengers while creating compelling earnings opportunities for drivers,” an Uber spokesperson told 7NEWS.com.au.

The company has “always sought to provide a fair and equitable experience for everyone who chooses to earn with Uber”, the spokesperson said.

“We acknowledge the impact this will have for a small percentage of current drivers, and we are taking additional steps to ensure these individuals are supported through this transition, including granting them complimentary diamond status under our Uber Pro program,” it said.

“We’re committed to providing a great experience for drivers, from our industry-leading package of support for EV drivers to the discounts and exclusive offers available via Uber Pro.”