Independent vehicle safety authority, ANCAP, has praised the move by ride-share platform Uber for its introduction of a 5 star vehicle use policy for its Australian driver partners.

The policy, which takes effect from today, requires all drivers who sign up to the Uber Australia rides platform to drive a vehicle which holds a 5 star ANCAP safety rating.

"This is a strong, responsible policy decision to improve the safety of all who use our roads," said ANCAP Chief Executive, James Goodwin.

"Ride-share services are a modern convenience. For some, it is their primary means of travel but for others, it's their workplace, so providing everyone with a safe environment is important."

"5 star safety is now the expected standard among car buyers, and we should expect the same high standard whenever we use a car as a mobility service."

"This should be the benchmark for others in the ride-share, car-share and taxi industry to follow," Mr Goodwin said.

The introduction of this policy sees Uber Australia join a wide range of major corporations, governments, service providers and businesses which have adopted 5 star vehicle purchase and use policies in recent years.

"These policies have had a positive effect on the new vehicle market and subsequent safety of the Australian registered vehicle fleet with the share of 5 star rated vehicles sold rising from 48% in 2012 to 92% today," he said.

Drivers can check the ANCAP safety rating of their vehicles at www.ancap.com.au/safer-rides.