Uber to Add Temporary Fuel Surcharge to Fares as Petrol Prices Surge
Australians using Uber will soon face slightly higher fares, with the rideshare giant introducing a temporary fuel surcharge in response to surging petrol and diesel prices.
From April 15, 2026, passengers travelling in petrol, diesel, or hybrid vehicles will pay an additional five cents per kilometre on their trips. Uber has confirmed that 100% of this surcharge will be passed directly to drivers to help offset operating costs, which have spiked following global oil market volatility and supply concerns in the Middle East.
Importantly, trips completed in battery electric vehicles (EVs) will not be affected by the new fee, as Uber continues to incentivize the transition to zero-emission transport.
Short-Term Measure to Support Drivers
Uber Australia Managing Director Emma Foley described the surcharge as a targeted, temporary step. “This measure builds on the national fare update Uber introduced in March, which increased driver earnings by an average of six per cent across Australia,” she said.
The surcharge is scheduled to remain in place until June 8, 2026, at which point Uber will review global oil prices to determine if the fee should be extended or removed.
The move follows a similar decision by competitor DiDi, which increased its own temporary fuel surcharge to five cents per kilometre earlier this year.
The surcharge arrives as the Fair Work Commission (FWC) begins implementing the Fairer Fuel Act 2026, which commenced on April 1.
This new legislation allows for faster processing of “emergency applications” regarding fuel cost recovery for road transport workers.
Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) National Secretary Michael Kaine welcomed the relief but emphasized the need for permanent standards. “With the Fairer Fuel Act now in effect and a major case underway at the FWC, we are working to ensure that fair pay and cost-recovery conditions are hardwired into the industry, so drivers aren’t left vulnerable every time there’s a spike at the bowser,” he said.
