The Uber files: firm knew it launched illegally in Australia, then leaned on governments to change the law

The Uber files: the ridesharing service set up shop in Australia in 2012 without the required permits and most states did not begin to legitimise the tech giant until 2016. Documents leaked to the Guardian reveal the company knew it was operating illegally upon launch. Composite: Guardian Design/Getty Images/Alamy

Uber understood it was operating illegally when it launched in Australia and fiercely lobbied governments to legalise its lucrative Australian operations, documents leaked to the Guardian reveal.

Taxis and hire cars are required by Australian state laws to obtain a licence prior to operating, but Uber set up shop in Australia in 2012 without the required permits.