Wheelchair Taxi Cost in Perth: Complete 2026 Pricing Guide
Wheelchair Taxi Cost in Perth: Complete 2026 Pricing Guide Finding reliable and affordable wheelchair transport is important for people who use wheelchairs, their families and carers. Whether you need to attend a medical appointment, travel to the airport, visit friends or commute to work, understanding the cost of wheelchair taxi services in Perth can help you plan your journey and avoid unexpected expenses. But how much does a wheelchair taxi cost in Perth in 2026? Does travelling in a wheelchair-accessible taxi cost more than using a regular taxi? Are there government subsidies that can reduce your fare? In this guide, we explain Perth taxi fares, estimated journey costs, factors that affect pricing, available subsidies and how to choose the right wheelchair-accessible taxi service. How Much Does a Wheelchair Taxi Cost in Perth? The cost of a wheelchair taxi in Perth generally depends on the distance travelled, time of travel, waiting time and the type of booking. For metered taxis operating in the Perth metropolitan region, the WA Government publishes maximum fare rates. These rates provide a useful starting point for estimating your journey. Importantly, requesting a wheelchair-accessible vehicle does not automatically mean that the higher large-vehicle tariff applies. The official fare schedule specifically excludes vehicles requested to carry a wheelchair from that large-vehicle tariff. Perth Taxi Fare Rates for 2026 The following are the published maximum metropolitan taxi fare rates: Fare component Tariff 1 Tariff 2 Flagfall (starting fare) $5.60 $8.00 Distance rate $2.20 per km $2.20 per km Waiting time $63 per hour $63 per hour When does each tariff apply? Tariff 1: Monday to Friday, 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. Tariff 2: Monday to Friday, 6:00 pm to 6:00 am, Friday evening to Monday morning, and public holidays. These are maximum metered fare rates, not guaranteed fixed prices for every wheelchair transport provider. Some services may offer an agreed fare before the journey, particularly for pre-booked or charter transport. Always confirm the fare and any additional charges when booking. Estimated Wheelchair Taxi Fares in Perth To help you understand the potential cost, here are example calculations using the published metropolitan taxi rates. Travel distance Tariff 1 estimate Tariff 2 estimate 5 km $16.60 $19.00 10 km $27.60 $30.00 15 km $38.60 $41.00 20 km $49.60 $52.00 25 km $60.60 $63.00 These estimates include the starting fare and distance charge only. They exclude waiting time, applicable surcharges, call-out fees and other permitted charges. Actual fares may vary depending on the journey and booking arrangement. For example, a 10 km weekday daytime journey is approximately $27.60 using Tariff 1. The same distance under Tariff 2 is approximately $30. This gives passengers and carers a useful starting point when planning transport expenses. Does a Wheelchair Taxi Cost More Than a Regular Taxi? Not necessarily. A wheelchair-accessible taxi is specially equipped to transport passengers who remain seated in their wheelchairs during the journey. It generally includes a suitable ramp or lift, wheelchair restraint systems and appropriate passenger safety equipment. Although the vehicle requires specialised equipment, requesting a vehicle to carry a wheelchair does not automatically make it subject to Tariff 3 under the WA metropolitan taxi fare schedule. However, the final price may differ depending on whether you book a metered taxi, a pre-agreed contract fare or a private charter service. Before confirming your booking, ask the provider: Is the fare metered or fixed? Are there any additional booking or call-out charges? Is waiting time included? Does the quoted price cover the complete journey? Are return trips charged separately? Getting these details in advance makes it easier to compare services. What Factors Affect Wheelchair Taxi Prices in Perth? Several factors can influence the final cost of a wheelchair-accessible taxi journey. 1. Distance of the Journey Distance is one of the main factors affecting taxi fares. Longer journeys generally cost more because the meter calculates charges based on the kilometres travelled. For example, travelling 5 km will usually cost less than travelling 20 km under the same tariff. When requesting a quote, provide your exact pickup and drop-off addresses. 2. Time of Travel Taxi fares can change depending on when you travel. In Perth, Tariff 1 applies during weekday daytime hours, while Tariff 2 applies during evenings, overnight periods, weekends and public holidays. If your travel time is flexible, compare the estimated cost before choosing your pickup time. 3. Waiting Time Waiting charges may apply when a taxi is required to wait during a journey. This can be relevant when travelling to medical appointments, hospitals, shopping centres or other locations where you may need additional time. If you require the driver to wait and take you back, confirm whether waiting time or a return booking will be more suitable. 4. Type of Transport Service Not all wheelchair transport services operate in the same way. You may find: Metered wheelchair-accessible taxis Pre-booked wheelchair taxi services Private wheelchair transport Long-distance wheelchair transport Airport wheelchair transfers Each booking arrangement may have different pricing conditions. Ask whether the provider charges by the meter, distance, time or an agreed journey price. 5. Additional Charges Depending on the booking and applicable regulations, additional charges may include permitted call-out fees, waiting time or special surcharges. For Perth metropolitan taxis, the published maximum call-out fee is $2, where applicable and where a guaranteed booking fee is not payable for the same hire. Always request a breakdown of the expected fare before confirming your trip. Can You Get a Wheelchair Taxi Subsidy in Perth? Yes. Eligible passengers in Western Australia may be able to reduce their taxi travel expenses through the Passenger Transport Subsidy Scheme (PTSS). The scheme helps eligible people with disability access on-demand taxi transport. What Is the Passenger Transport Subsidy Scheme? The Passenger Transport Subsidy Scheme is a Western Australian Government initiative that provides financial assistance towards eligible taxi fares. For eligible passengers who require a wheelchair, the subsidy can help make wheelchair-accessible taxi travel more affordable. How Much Can You Save Through PTSS? Under the published PTSS









