he landmark Uber Class Action reached a major milestone on 2 December 2024, with the Supreme Court of Victoria approving a settlement worth $271.8 million. This settlement, which includes legal costs and funding commissions, was deemed fair and reasonable, ensuring justice for thousands of group members impacted by Uber’s alleged illegal operations in the taxi and hire car industries.
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Maurice Blackburn, a leading class action law firm, has been appointed to administer the settlement under a Settlement Distribution Scheme (SDS). Below, we break down everything you need to know about the settlement process, timelines, and next steps.
Settlement Overview
What is the Uber Class Action About?
The class action was launched on behalf of licence owners, operators, drivers, and Network Service Providers (NSPs) in the taxi and hire car industries. The lawsuit alleged that UberX’s illegal introduction and operation caused significant economic losses by disrupting traditional business models.
The claims include:
- Loss of income for licence owners, operators, and drivers.
- Decline in the capital value of taxi and hire car licences.
Who is Affected?
The class action covers:
- Licence owners impacted by reduced capital value and lease income.
- Operators who lost operational income.
- Drivers whose earnings were diminished due to UberX’s entry.
- Network Service Providers who suffered income losses (e.g., radio network fees).
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Next Steps for Group Members
1. Registered Group Members
If you registered for the Uber Class Action by 2 October 2023, no immediate action is required. Maurice Blackburn will contact you once the Appeal Period ends, which is anticipated in April 2025 (subject to the court’s timeline).
Key points to remember:
- Stay Updated: Ensure your contact details are up to date by emailing [email protected] with “Updated Contact Details” in the subject line.
- Wait for Contact: Maurice Blackburn will reach out when further information is required about your claim.
2. Unregistered Group Members
If you did not register before the deadline, participation in the settlement is only possible if you:
- Filed an application for leave by 2 July 2024.
- Had your application approved by the Court.
The Court has categorized unregistered group members into two groups:
- Group 1: Applications denied – no compensation will be paid.
- Group 2: Applications approved – eligible to participate in the settlement.
Unregistered group members will be informed of their application outcome via email. Maurice Blackburn has no discretion over these decisions.
Settlement Distribution Scheme (SDS): How Funds Will Be Allocated
The SDS, approved by the Court, outlines how the settlement funds will be distributed among group members. This scheme is designed to be fair, efficient, and cost-effective.
Types of Claims Covered Under the SDS
Group members may have one or more types of claims, depending on their circumstances:
| Role | Type of Claim |
|---|---|
| Licence Owners | Decline in licence capital value and/or loss of lease income. |
| Operators | Loss of income from operating a taxi or hire car. |
| Drivers | Loss of income from driving a taxi or hire car (limited to one claim, regardless of the number of vehicles driven). |
| NSPs | Loss of income from network service operations (e.g., radio network fees). |
Factors Affecting Payouts
Compensation amounts will vary based on:
- The number of eligible claims.
- The type and complexity of the claims.
- Individual circumstances, such as the number of licences owned or operated.
Timeline for Compensation
Key Milestones
- Appeal Period: Expected to expire in April 2025 (subject to court timelines).
- Administration Process: Once the Appeal Period ends, Maurice Blackburn will assess all claims under the SDS.
- Estimated Payouts: Payments are unlikely to begin until late 2026 at the earliest.
Why the Delay?
- The Rosengrave proceeding, filed in Western Australia in 2020, is part of the larger Uber Class Action. This proceeding must be resolved before the administration process can proceed.
- Claim assessments are complex and require careful evaluation to ensure fairness.
Maurice Blackburn will provide updates throughout the process to keep group members informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Will I Receive My Payment?
Payments are expected to begin in late 2026, but this is subject to change depending on court timelines and the complexity of the administration process.
How Much Compensation Will I Receive?
The exact amount will depend on:
- The type of claim(s) you have.
- The total number of eligible group members.
- The settlement fund allocated to your claim category.
Can I Still Register or Submit a Claim?
No. Registration and leave application deadlines have passed. Late registrations are not permitted unless granted leave by the Court.
How Do I Update My Contact Information?
Email [email protected] with “Updated Contact Details” in the subject line.
What You Need to Do Now
For registered group members:
- Wait for Contact: Maurice Blackburn will notify you when action is required.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the website for updates and ensure your contact details are current.
For unregistered group members:
- Check your email for the outcome of your leave application.
- Contact Maurice Blackburn only if you need further clarification about your eligibility.
The Uber Class Action Settlement marks a significant victory for affected licence owners, operators, drivers, and NSPs. While the road to compensation is lengthy, the approved settlement reflects a commitment to ensuring fairness for all group members. Stay informed and patient as the process unfolds.
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