Since 3 October 2017, owners of rideshare vehicles in Queensland can apply for a new class of compulsory third party insurance (CTP). Class 26 is the new class for “booked hire”. It applies to Qld registered vehicles that are used for rideshare or ride-booking services, such as Uber or GoCatch.
Class 26
The Qld government has created class 26 as part of reform to the personalised transport industry. Allianz, QBE, RACQ and Suncorp (all Qld CTP insurers) quote for this new class of vehicle.
Owners of these vehicles who offer rideshare can apply for class 26 CTP:
- Cars and station wagons (previously class 1)
- Utes and vans (previously class 6)
- Limousines (previously class 4).
The new CTP premium for 2017-18 is $552.50 for 12 months, with direct debit only for 3 and 6 months.
New rideshare responsibilities
Legislation passed during 2017 has clarified the responsibilities expected of rideshare providers.
If you drive a rideshare vehicle (but not taxis or limousines) you must now hold the newly created Booked Hire Service (BHS) licence. This currently costs $236.27 for 12 months. You must also arrange for an annual Certificate of Inspection, which starts at $51.40 for a light vehicle. The BHS licence and COI help guarantee your vehicle is suitable and safe for customers to use.
Rideshare drivers are not allowed to pick up passengers from taxi ranks or on the street. Identification on the vehicle must make it plain this is a rideshare and not a taxi. Finally, rideshare providers must give a fare estimate to the customer before starting the journey.
For much more about your new responsibilities as a rideshare provider, go here:
www.personalisedtransport.tmr.qld.gov.au.
See more about Queensland CTP.