Uber to roll out across regional NSW, including Inverell

Local residents can now sign-up to drive with Uber before the ride-share giant turns on the app across the state.

That means people from every corner of NSW - from Boggabilla to Bombala, Bega to Broken Hill - can potentially access the popular service that, until now, has only been available in cities and large regional centres.

Uber Australia general manager Dom Taylor said they'd heard from people right across the state that they want Uber to come to their community - so now's the time to sign-up.

"We're keen to see locals and tourists alike support these regional drivers when the Uber rider app goes live state-wide in April," he said.

"Our first regional city to launch was Newcastle in 2016. Since then we've expanded to towns like Orange, Tamworth and Byron Bay.

"What we've learnt is that Uber is a great way for people to get home safely and avoid drink driving. It's also a great opportunity for people to earn some extra dollars on the weekends or during peak tourist periods."

Mr Taylor said the roll-out will make it one of the largest areas of Uber coverage in the world.

"We've brought forward our plans to expand Uber across the entire state to help fire and drought-affected regions get back on their feet," he said.

"It's our way of supporting the #LoveNSW initiative to bring domestic and international tourism to the regions.

"Over 1.8 million overnight domestic visitors head to the North West and New England region each year, and our own data shows domestic and international tourists love Uber.

"In fact, over the first two months of 2020, tens of thousands of domestic tourists from 35 places around Australia, have used the Uber app to get around the parts of regional NSW we already cover.

"That's why we believe rideshare can help drive spend for local businesses as tourists get around to the fantastic restaurants, events and pubs that Moree and surrounds have to offer."

Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) Australia CEO Margy Osmond applauded the move.

"TTF applauds Uber's commitment to growing transport choices for both residents and visitors to regional towns across NSW and it will be really exciting to watch these regions light up in the coming months," she said.

"Regional NSW hosts an incredible array of fabulous events and Uber services will help ensure ease of access for everyone. The expansion also helps to open up the options in the regions, from a Friday night out for locals to visitors attending local festivals etc, the service is a winner.

"Importantly at the moment, when it is so important to encourage people to visit our local towns this new transport option will make the whole experience easier."

The process to sign up to drive with Uber is straightforward and cost-effective.

Locals are encouraged to sign up now to be ready to hit the road before the Easter long weekend. To find out more, go to www.uber.com/au/en/drive/sydney/get-started/