July 1 2010 will see a hike in the taxi fares in Canberra by almost 2.48%. Detailing the prices, it has been announced that the flag-fall for the usual hiring of the taxi will augment to $4.50, and the rate per kilometer from 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. will increase to $1.80, during the weekends.

At all other times, the kilometer price has been fixed to $2.07. A submission by the Canberra Taxi Industry Association (CTIA) led to these rises in the fares of taxis, and was announced by the Chief Minister, Jon Stanhope.

Also, an independent consultant was confirmed and verified for this rise in fares, before any step was taken. This hike will be put over at the cost of labor, LPG, the interest rates, insurances, and various other expenses that are in concern with the functions of a taxi.

Mr. Stanhope added, “Taxi fares have historically increased from 1 July each year, covering the rise in the everyday expenses of running taxi services. The increase in fares allows taxi operators to earn a reasonable income and sufficient revenue to cover their costs, without increasing taxi fares to the point where use of the service is discouraged”.