10 Aug 2023 | 10:43 AM UTC
Australia: Protests by taxi drivers possible at Melbourne Airport through at least mid-August
Protests possible at Melbourne Airport, Australia, through at least mid-August. Increased security, localized transport disruptions likely.
Event
Taxi drivers could stage rallies at Melbourne Airport (MEL) through at least Aug. 15, to demand MEL officials convert a rideshare (Uber) rank at international arrivals into a taxi rank. MEL officials converted the rideshare rank from a taxi rank in 2021. Taxi drivers reportedly blocked roads to prevent rideshare drivers from picking up passengers Aug. 9-10, causing increased congestion and a reduction in taxi availability. Around 80 workers also gathered to protest at the rideshare rank, Aug. 10. Although there have been no specific announcements of further gatherings, additional demonstrations could occur in the coming days. Up to a hundred activists could take part in any action.
Authorities will likely monitor any protests that may materialize and move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Minor isolated skirmishes between police and activists cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse. Reduction in taxi availability, increased congestion, and increased demand for alternative transportation will likely occur if taxi drivers block access to the rideshare rank in the coming days, causing increased travel times to and from MEL. Violence and associated disruptions to airport operations remain unlikely.
Advice
Exercise caution around any protests as a precaution. Plan for possible reduced taxi availability and increased travel times to and from MEL. Consider alternative transport options. Monitor local media for updates on rallies, as organizers may announce demonstrations at short notice. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.
