TENNIS

Fans heading to the Australian for Melbourne

January, 04, 2025-04:28

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Fans heading to the Australian for Melbourne :

Attendees of the Australian Open have been cautioned to remain vigilant regarding Melbourne taxi drivers who may attempt to defraud them through dubious payment methods.

Certain taxi operators are reportedly employing deceptive tactics to charge passengers up to $80 for a ride from the MCG to Richmond, a distance that is merely a short walk from the renowned stadium. In one instance, a traveler was asked to pay $100 for a six-kilometer trip.

These unscrupulous drivers have circumvented the existing payment system, which is designed to link directly to the meter and prevent additional charges from being added to the fare. Instead, they are utilizing alternative, portable payment devices to bypass the meter and impose significantly inflated rates.

The taxi company 13Cabs has urged the Victorian Government to implement new regulations to eliminate this practice. David Samuel, head of public affairs at 13Cabs, explained to News Corp, "This is the method they [the drivers] use when they charge you $80 to take you from the MCG to Richmond. The taxi meter is what ensures integrity in the taxi service. It is that meter that grants you the privilege to operate in rank and hail work. If you choose to abuse that privilege, you risk losing it."

Samuel further noted that it is feasible to ensure that all payment terminals can only charge amounts displayed on the meter, but the industry requires regulatory support to enforce this measure.

Fans attending the Australian Open have already faced exorbitant prices for various items, including tickets, food, and merchandise. Last year, tickets for the men's singles final reached as high as $6000, while the least expensive tickets were priced at an astonishing $1998.

The financial strain extended to merchandise, with an official tracksuit costing fans $419, official towels priced at $79, and some baseball caps listed at $99. Additionally, spectators were charged $14.50 for a 425mL plastic cup of beer and $29.50 for a glass.