Taxi & Transport Scams in Melbourne, Australia
Overcharging, meter tampering, fake taxis, and transport cons targeting tourists. Below are the taxi & transport scams reported in Melbourne — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nadi, Auckland, and Sydney.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
1
Taxi & Transport Scams
11
Total in Melbourne
How it works
At Southern Cross Station on Spencer Street, unofficial drivers approach arriving travellers — particularly those with luggage — and offer rides into the CBD or to Melbourne Airport at seemingly fixed prices. These are not licensed taxis or registered rideshare vehicles; the driver may demand cash only, inflate the fare mid-journey, or refuse to complete the trip until additional payment is made. Legitimate taxis queue at the designated rank on Spencer Street, and Uber/DiDi pickups require a confirmed app booking.
See all scams in Melbourne
11 total warnings across all categories