The launch of ride-sharing service Uber is planned to go ahead in early December, and the company’s head of cities is optimistic the service will be beneficial to the Bathurst community.
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Despite a mixed reaction to news of the service’s launch last month, Uber’s head of cities across Australia and New Zealand Natalie Malligan says the launch will diversify transport options.
“We believe ride-sharing will complement the existing transport network in Bathurst, and will help alleviate pressure on services during weekends and major events,” Ms Malligan said.
“We have selected cities for expansion based on where demand for trips is high.”
Uber requires users to set up an account on the company’s mobile phone app in order to match them with nearby drivers.
Bathurst is one of six cities in regional NSW set to welcome Uber next month, alongside Orange, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga.
Critics of Uber’s launch have called into question the potential effects the service could have on Bathurst taxis as well as safety concerns surrounding their cars and drivers.
READ MORE: Uber in Bathurst: The community reacts
However, Ms Malligan has reassured the Bathurst community that Uber is a safe and reliable service.
“With Uber, there’s no need to walk around late at night trying to hail a cab or find the nearest bus stop; you can wait safely inside for the car to arrive,” she said.
“Across the country, more than 3.8 million Australians have embraced Uber as a safe, reliable and affordable way to get around their city.”
According to Ms Malligan, there has already been a significant number of local people express interest in becoming Uber drivers in Bathurst.
“It presents a great opportunity for members of the community who want to sign up to drive to earn extra money,” she said.
“You can choose to drive when it suits you, and we hope this will be a welcome option for many.”
A official launch date for Uber is expected in the coming weeks.
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Sam Bolt
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
