Uber review follows talks with Vision Australia and Guide Dogs Australia

Uber has removed an extra fee attached to Uber Assist after concerns raised by Vision Australia and Guide Dogs Australia.

Vision Australia reported that the two organisations met directly with Uber after learning passengers using Uber Assist were paying more for a service aimed at people with disability.

Both groups told Uber they had serious concerns because people with disability were being charged extra to access support intended to help them stay active and independent.

Following those discussions, Uber also agreed to review the Uber Assist service to check whether it meets the needs of people with disability.

The company has further committed to creating an Accessibility Advisory Panel to guide future decisions on services and issues affecting disabled riders on the platform.

Accessibility Advisory Panel

Chris Edwards, Vision Australia’s Chief Mission Officer, called the outcome a positive one for the disability community.

“Uber were very receptive to our concerns, and we’re pleased they have removed the Uber Assist fee,” Edwards said.

Edwards also described the result as an example of the disability community and support organisations working together with a major rideshare company to secure change.

Vision Australia wants talks with Uber and the wider rideshare industry to continue beyond the fee reversal.

In his second statement, Edwards said people who are blind, have low vision, or live with another disability should have fair and equitable access to transport.

Guide Dogs Australia took part in the meetings with Uber, adding support to the case against the added Uber Assist charge.

Uber Assist is designed for riders who need extra support, so the disputed fee drew objections because it increased the cost of an accessibility-focused option.

As a result, people using Uber Assist will no longer face that added cost while Uber reviews how the service operates.

Vision Australia is a leading provider of blindness-related services in Australia.

The organisation offers services, equipment and training so people who are blind or have low vision can live the life they choose.

Its staff work with clients of all age groups at home, at work, at school and in the community.

Vision Australia says that support helps clients build skills and use tools that support active, safe and independent lives.