After more than three decades behind the wheel, taxi driver Michael Kanat says he’s never seen conditions as tough as they are today.

With fuel prices soaring, the long-time cabbie is now paying more than double to keep his vehicle on the road, his weekly diesel bill jumping from around $300–$400 to more than $800.

But unlike other industries, taxi drivers can’t pass those costs on.

“We’re regulated by the government, so whatever they say goes,” he explains.

The result is a growing financial strain, with Kanat admitting many drivers are already operating at a loss after gruelling 12-hour shifts.

“It’s not sustainable now … a lot of vehicles will start parking up,” he warns.

In a bid to survive, Kanat has made the difficult decision to retire his diesel cab and switch to a hybrid vehicle.

While the government’s fuel excise cut offers some relief, he said more support may be needed, especially as taxis remain a vital service for vulnerable passengers.