Castlemaine Mail · Apr 10, 2026

Committed To Community

Lily Tuck Hard News

Castlemaine Taxis drivers lined up beside their two cars.

Photo: Lily Tuck

As the effects of the war in Iran continue to impact fuel prices, Castlemaine's taxi company are feeling the pinch. One of the owners, Jass Singh, wants the community to know, "We will be here to support."

The demand for taxi services has been on the rise in recent weeks as members of the community opt to spend money on a fare rather than use their own fuel.

"It's been very challenging," Jass said.

Unleaded fuel is now at an unprecedented high of $2.50 a litre, increasing by more than 30 per cent since the war began on February 28. Castlemaine Taxi's do not want to raise their fares, saying they "want to keep everyone happy," but are worried about what not shifting prices may bring.

The taxi service has seen an influx of customers over the Easter period, with one driver saying there's been "everybody, from everywhere needing a lift."

At the start of the month, the Victorian government announced free public transport services across the state till April 30 to help provide cost-of-living relief.

"I picked up a couple of people last week who said they were catching the train. They'd never caught a taxi before, but they're using it now," Jass said.

Reports of overcrowding on V/Line transport escalated over the weekend as the public holiday timetable reduced services. Comments posted to V/Line's public Facebook page claim overcrowding and cancellations.

Jass said customers are opting for his services over driving because it costs "$80 to get to Melbourne and back in their own car."

The Castlemaine taxi service operates six cars most days, doing between 30 and 35 trips each. On a daily basis, the company completes roughly 200 trips locally and in the surrounding areas. If fuel prices continue to climb, Mr Singh said: "It's going to be a very tough situation."

Castlemaine Taxi has been operating in town for over 40 years, spending the last five under the management of Jass Singh and Bal Singh.

Jass said the company has not faced pressure like this since COVID-19.

"There was no work then, but government support was there. There is no support at the moment, we just hope fuel prices come down," he said.

Despite the challenges, he said the service remains committed to supporting the community as demand continues to grow.