Taxi fare and accessibility reforms
The Northern Territory Government has approved several reforms to improve fare transparency, strengthen accessibility support and enhance commercial passenger vehicle (CPV) services across the Territory, which will be rolled out during August and September 2026.
The reforms respond to feedback from industry stakeholders, the CPV Forum and the community, designed to improve customer confidence while supporting a sustainable and accessible transport network.
Simpler and more transparent taxi fares
From 1 August 2026, Taxi networks will be able to offer set fares of up to 110% of the estimated fare. This will allow customers and taxi networks to agree on the total cost of a trip at the time of booking, providing greater pricing certainty and transparency.
From 15 September 2026, High Occupancy tariffs will also be removed. A $10 large vehicle surcharge will be introduced for network bookings. The change will simplify taxi fare structures while recognising the additional operating costs associated with larger vehicles.
Increased support for people with disability
From 1 August 2026, Transport Subsidy Scheme benefits will increase for eligible members:
- Category D: $243 to $267
- Category C: $604 to $800
- Category B: $2,056 to $2,246.
The Lift Incentive Scheme, which supports wheelchair accessible transport services, will also increase from $20 to $30 per trip, with annual allocations increasing from 180 to 300 payments.
These changes improve support for people with disability, strengthen incentives for drivers to provide wheelchair accessible transport services and improve the availability of accessible transport across the Territory.
Maintaining vehicle standards and safety
The reforms also include updates to the In-service Maintenance Standards to provide greater flexibility for minor exterior cosmetic damage while maintaining safety and interior condition requirements.
A maximum vehicle age limit of 13 years will also be introduced for all CPVs. This formalises existing arrangements and supports a safe, reliable and well-maintained vehicle fleet.
Supporting better transport services
The reforms will deliver:
- simpler and more transparent taxi fares
- greater certainty about the cost of a trip before travel
- increased support for people who rely on accessible transport services
- improved availability of wheelchair accessible vehicles
- safe, reliable and well-maintained CPVs.
Further information
For more information, contact the CPV Unit at CPV.admin@nt.gov.au
