The NSW Opposition has renewed its push for QR codes in taxis, seizing on alarming new figures showing more than one in four women have experienced inappropriate behaviour in taxis and rideshares.
The proposal, first floated in 2024 and backed by the NSW Taxi Council, would place unique QR codes in cabs so passengers could choose to pay via the meter or scan the code.
The system would link the trip to the driver, vehicle and customer, creating a clearer record for fare disputes, complaints and safety investigations.
Opposition transport spokeswoman Natalie Ward said the figures revealed a system failing women.
“This is a simple, practical reform that would give women more control and confidence every time they use a ride-share or taxi service,” Ward said.
She went further, declaring, “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.”
The Opposition argues the NSW Government’s response to behaviour concerns has been too slow and too soft, saying training alone will not prevent misconduct in the moment.
“Government can’t be in every cab, every time — but a QR code can,” Ward said.
Shadow minister for the prevention of domestic and sexual assault Natasha Maclaren-Jones said women should not be left feeling exposed during everyday travel, “especially at night”, while Shadow Minister for Women Felicity Wilson said the statistics showed the current approach was failing.
The Opposition says QR codes would deliver real-time trip verification, better fare transparency and stronger accountability with the aim of giving women greater confidence in getting home safely.
