Taxi drivers to be fined $1,000 for refusing to turn on meters or declining fares in NSW

Transport minister Jo Haylen said drivers had been warned that enforcement officers would be out in force, especially during events like Vivid

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

The New South Wales government is increasing on-the-spot fines from $300 to $1,000 for rogue taxi drivers who are caught refusing to turn on their meters, refusing fairs or negotiating prices with riders amid rising reports of dodgy operators across the state.

The transport minister, Jo Haylen, said drivers had been warned that enforcement officers would be out in force, especially during events like Vivid, and would not hesitate to issue them with a hefty fine.