13 July 2025
Taxi Driver Salaries and Earnings in Australia (2025)
Understanding what Australian taxi drivers really earn—and how to keep more of it.
In 2025, driving a taxi in Australia remains a flexible and reliable way to earn a living. But how much can drivers realistically make, and what factors influence their income?
This guide breaks down what taxi drivers earn, what costs to watch out for, and how modern payment solutions like CabFare can help increase take-home pay.
Average Taxi Driver Earnings in 2025
Taxi driver income varies depending on location, hours worked, and whether the driver owns or leases their vehicle.
Estimated weekly earnings: $1,000 to $1,600
Estimated annual earnings: $52,000 to $83,000 (before tax and expenses)
Drivers in busy cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane tend to earn more, but also face higher operating costs and competition. Regional drivers may earn less overall, but often have lower expenses and more consistent demand.
What Affects a Driver’s Income?
1. Number of Fares
The more trips completed, the higher the earnings. Driving during busy periods like weekends, holidays or major events leads to more fares.
2. Payment Processing Fees
Many traditional EFTPOS providers charge:
Monthly rental fees
Per-transaction commissions
Extra fees for premium cards like American Express
These fees can significantly reduce your income.
3. Payment Methods Accepted
Most passengers now prefer to pay by card or mobile wallet. Drivers who do not accept contactless payments risk losing fares.
How CabFare Helps Drivers Earn More
CabFare is a payment solution designed specifically for the taxi and transport industry. It supports over 5,000 drivers across Australia and has processed more than 30 million payments.
Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
No monthly fees | No ongoing rental costs |
Instant payouts | Get paid daily or in real time |
App-based payments | Accept payments using just your phone |
Broad payment acceptance | Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Apple Pay, Google Pay and more |
Fast support | Local team available for help when needed |
CabFare offers both traditional EFTPOS terminals and a modern Tap to Pay app, so drivers can choose the option that suits them best.
Trends in 2025
More drivers are using app-based payments instead of traditional hardware
Instant settlement is now expected, not optional
Compliance across all states is essential for staying on the road
Zero lock-in contracts and transparent pricing are becoming the norm
How to Maximise Your Earnings
Use a zero-fee payment provider
Focus on driving during peak periods
Avoid long-term contracts or high transaction fees
Track your earnings with real-time dashboards
Choose a platform that supports all major payment methods
Final Thoughts
Taxi drivers in Australia can earn a solid income in 2025, especially with the right tools. Choosing a payment system like CabFare that is reliable, compliant, and fee-free can make a big difference.
If you’re a driver looking to reduce costs and keep more of what you earn, consider switching to a smarter, simpler payment solution.
