Broome has become the first town in northern Western Australia to welcome Uber, with the ride-share company officially launching services on 30 July 2026. The introduction of the platform provides residents and visitors with an additional transport option and is expected to improve local mobility during the busy tourism season.

The launch marks a significant milestone for Broome's transport network. Until now, residents and tourists have primarily relied on taxis, rental vehicles and shuttle services to travel around the town. With Uber now operating, passengers can book rides through the company's mobile application, receive fare estimates before travelling and track their driver's arrival in real time.

Broome is one of Western Australia's most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from across Australia and overseas for attractions including Cable Beach, Gantheaume Point, Chinatown and the famous Staircase to the Moon. Local tourism operators believe the arrival of Uber will make it easier for visitors to move between hotels, restaurants, attractions and Broome International Airport without needing to hire a vehicle.

The ride-share service is also expected to create flexible earning opportunities for local drivers. People who meet Uber's eligibility requirements can register to drive using their own vehicles, allowing them to work flexible hours according to demand. Company representatives said regional expansion helps increase transport availability while supporting local economic activity.

Business owners have welcomed the launch, saying improved transport options can benefit restaurants, entertainment venues and tourism businesses by making it easier for customers to travel safely, particularly during evenings and major community events. Increased transport choice is also expected to improve accessibility for people without private vehicles.

Local residents have expressed mixed views about the new service. Some welcomed greater competition and the convenience of app-based bookings, while others noted the importance of ensuring existing taxi operators continue to play a strong role in Broome's transport network. Industry observers believe both services are likely to operate alongside each other to meet seasonal demand.

Uber said it has worked with local regulatory requirements before launching in Broome and will continue supporting drivers and passengers through its digital platform. Safety features available through the application include GPS trip tracking, driver identification, emergency assistance options and ride-sharing details with trusted contacts.

Tourism operators expect demand for transport to increase during major festivals and the peak visitor season. Having an additional ride-share option may help reduce waiting times and provide travellers with more flexibility when moving around the region.

The launch reflects Uber's continued expansion into regional Australia, where the company has gradually introduced services to communities outside major capital cities. Officials said Broome was selected because of growing visitor demand and the town's importance as a tourism gateway to the Kimberley.

As operations begin, Uber will monitor rider demand and driver availability while continuing to work with the local community. The company said it looks forward to becoming part of Broome's transport network and supporting both residents and visitors with another travel option. The launch represents a new chapter in local transport and is expected to contribute positively to Broome's tourism and hospitality sectors.