Qld Uber bashings bring debate to a head

Queensland's Uber debate appears to have fuelled violent attacks on drivers but the escalation hasn't been enough to prompt immediate government action.

Two drivers of the ride-sharing app were attacked by a group of men in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point early on Monday morning.

A third motorist, who was not working for Uber, was also assaulted.

The Taxi Council Queensland (TCQ) on Tuesday condemned the violence but expressed frustration at the uneven playing field.

"The government needs to act," CEO Benjamin Wash said.

"They can no longer sit on the fence."

He compared the situation to a burglary where police had identified a culprit but refused to prosecute, forcing victims to take the law into their own hands.

The Queensland government is reviewing its taxi strategy amid ongoing pressure from taxi drivers to regulate Uber, and is understood to be appointing a committee this week.

Transport Minister Jackie Trad would not comment on the attacks but said there was no excuse for violence and intimidation.

Uber also called for government intervention.

"We urge the government to quickly introduce sensible, safety-based ride-sharing regulations that are in the best interest of consumers and not to shield the incumbent industry from competition," a spokesman said.

The TCQ had initially refused to comment, but said it was forced to respond after Facebook comments from Brisbane taxi boss Greg Collins appeared in media reports.

Mr Collins urged a "more militant" approach in the debate, which he referred to as a war, and made reference to hitting a "prick in Warner Street the other night".

The post has since been removed.

Mr Wash insisted there was no evidence anyone from the taxi industry was responsible.

Uber was exposed to "some degree of culpability" because it was operating illegally, he said.

Uber said the TCQ's view was disappointing but not surprising.

Mr Collins has clarified that he never meant to imply he was responsible.

"While I do not advocate physical assault and don't endorse illegal activity, my comments do reflect the level of frustration that I and others in the taxi industry feel over the operation of illegal taxi services," he said in a statement.

Police said they were not investigating Mr Collins because no complaint had been made.