The Victorian Government has announced the final stage of commercial passenger vehicle (CPV) reform changes, with remaining changes commencing from 1 July and 1 August 2026.
The changes build on reforms already introduced throughout 2025 and 2026, including higher penalties for some fare-related offences, mandatory QR codes in CPVs and strengthened rules about driver and Booking Service Provider (BSP) affiliation.
After this announcement, ST Vic will continue to provide practical guidance to help industry implement the requirements, including camera/audio guidance and QR code process information. This guidance will support the reforms already announced rather than introduce a new stage of reform changes.
The main action for drivers remains updating BSP affiliation details in the ST Vic user portal by 1 September 2026.
What drivers need to do
If they haven’t already, drivers need to log in to the ST Vic user portal and update their BSP affiliation details by 1 September 2026.
A driver’s BSP affiliation means the Booking Service Provider or providers they work with or accept bookings through. Drivers who work with more than one BSP must include each provider.
Drivers must also keep their BSP affiliation details up to date when they apply for accreditation, renew their accreditation, or within five business days if their circumstances change.
Changes already announced
These remaining reform changes build on updates already announced or introduced through the CPV reform rollout.
Earlier changes include:
- increased penalties for meter offences from 1 January 2026
- mandatory QR codes in CPVs from 1 March 2026
- the two-strikes framework for repeat serious meter misuse
- clearer rules that drivers must only display signage for the BSP they are affiliated with
- strengthened Public Care Objective provisions to address inappropriate conduct including sexual harassment and discrimination
- BSP affiliation, Public Register and camera/audio changes
Remaining changes from 1 July 2026
The following changes start from 1 July 2026. Not every change will apply to every driver, BSP or vehicle owner. ST Vic will continue to provide practical guidance to help industry understand what applies to them.
Correct BSP signage
- Drivers must not display signage for a BSP unless they are associated with that BSP. This means drivers should only display signs, branding or other BSP-related material for a provider they work with or accept bookings through.
QR code responsibilities
- QR codes remain mandatory in CPVs. From 1 July, BSPs will need to take reasonable steps to ensure associated drivers display the required QR code signage or an approved electronic equivalent.
Digital complaints pathway
- From 1 July 2026, ST Vic will have the ability to approve a digital alternative to physical QR codes for BSPs providing booked services. Existing display requirements continue to apply and physical QR codes remain mandatory.
Two-strikes framework
- From 1 July, 2026, the two-strikes framework will expand to include relevant service refusal offences, including assistance animal refusals. This means repeat serious offending will lead to cancellation of driver accreditation where the legal requirements are met.
Changes to vehicle camera standards
From 1 July 2026, changes to camera standards for unbooked CPVs will commence. These changes include:
- Audio – For unbooked CPVs that must have cameras installed, audio recording is also now required. Any device which records audio must be an ST Vic approved device and meet the minimum standards.
- Accessing camera footage – BSPs will be allowed to access camera footage for prescribed reasons with data management safeguards in place.
- Camera data storage – 14 days of footage must be recorded and stored within the equipment memory (or cloud-based storage if applicable). This is an increase from the previous period of 72 hours.
- Video resolution – Video resolution must meet minimum 480 lines (720p resolution).
Guidance on camera and audio implementation
ST Vic will publish minimum standards and implementation guidance for camera and audio requirements in July 2026. The implementation guide provides practical information to help industry understand and implement the changes.
Changes from 1 August 2026
The following changes will commence from 1 August 2026.
Service refusal
Under the ‘two strikes rule’, a new service refusal offence will apply to drivers providing unbooked CPV services, unless an exception applies. Exceptions may include safety concerns, threatening or abusive behaviour, concerns about payment, or other circumstances set out in the regulations.
Notifiable incident reporting
Notifiable incident reporting will expand to include incidents or complaints relating to overcharging, non-cash payment surcharge issues, assistance animal refusals, service refusals and sexual assault, sexual harassment, assault, threats or intimidation. ST Vic will provide further guidance before these changes commence, including any updates to reporting forms or processes.
Further information about the CPV industry reforms is available on the ST Vic website.