It’s something many Australian’s have done inside an Uber, and likely have no idea is against the law.
In 2018, an Uber passenger in Western Australia was spotted drinking alcohol by police traffic patrol. He attempted to hide the beer under his seat, but was ultimately fined $200 for street drinking.
Although it is widely known it is illegal to drink while driving, most are unaware that the same law applies when you are a passenger.
Western Australia is not the only state where this law applies. Having an alcoholic drink open inside an Uber or taxi in NSW and Victoria can result in a fine of up to $1100. In South Australia the fine is as high as $1250, and in Queensland the maximum penalty is $2523.
Other Uber rules most people aren’t aware of, according to Uber’s community guidelines, include children having to be accompanied by a parent or guardian when riding in a vehicle, no touching or flirting between a passenger and driver, and no asking overly personal questions.
Sex between an Uber driver and passenger, even when consensual, will result in a driver and passenger being banned from Uber, along with contacting a driver or passenger after the ride has been completed.
Top Comments
Please cite the source for the QLD fine amount. I am a professional driver in QLD and I'm familiar with most of the legislation, but have been unable to find where this potential fine comes from.
The Liquor Act 1992 bans drinking in a public place that is a road, but this attracts a maximum penalty of 1 unit ($130). The Road Rules only mention that you cannot consume alcohol while supervising a Learner.
Of course you can't, you can't have a beer while fishing, or a glass of wine in a park, or do anything that people have done for centuries to relax and socialize like human beings. It makes perfect sense. The government is trying to drive everyone mad.