UBER drivers are threatening to strike after the ride-sharing service announced fares would be slashed to boost passenger numbers.

Queenslanders will pay 20 per cent less to ride with Uber from today, as part of a month-long trial. Frustrated drivers, who were told via email yesterday, spoke in closed groups online, threatening to quit the service, while many agreed to turn off their apps in protest this weekend.

In December, drivers claimed they were earning less than the minimum wage once taxes, expenses and Uber’s cut were deducted.

PAY: Uber drivers prepare to fight back

Uber’s city lead Sam Bool said the same fare cut in Perth saw fares per hour jump by 37 per cent.

“While riders are paying a cheaper fare, they are riding a lot more,” he said. “It’s that ­demand that can actually increase earnings for drivers.”

Uber drivers are being handed a guaranteed 40 hours a week as consolation. The fares will be continually reviewed over the next month.

One driver told The Courier-Mail the pay was “unsustainably low” as it is.

“It is never the case that drivers do better when rates are slashed.

“I won’t drive anymore, lots are quitting and some are not driving this weekend.”

Originally published as Might be hard to get an Uber this weekend