Nicola Bortic, 42, is accused of repeatedly punching the male driver in a drunken fit of rage after the pair disagreed on whether a fare between Dapto and Bortic’s Penrose home should cost $13 or $14.

Documents tendered to Wollongong Bail Court on Saturday said the victim picked up a female passenger from the Dapto taxi rank just after 3.30pm and drove her to Bortic’s unit complex, allegedly telling her the fare would be $14.

When they arrived at the complex, a drunk Bortic came out of his apartment and began arguing with the driver about the price of the fare, allegedly saying it should be $13 and accusing the driver of ripping him off.

Police claim Bortic then attacked the driver, punching him multiple times in the head through the driver’s side window.

The driver tried to push Bortic away by opening the door on him, however Bortic was able to get between the door and the driver and continued the assault, it is alleged.

The driver attempted to stand at one stage however Bortic allegedly knocked him to the ground.

Neighbours soon came to the driver’s aid, prompting Bortic to retreat to his unit.

He was arrested a short time later by police and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The victim was left with a bloodied nose and cut above his eye as a result of the assault.

Police opposed Bortic’s bail in court on Saturday, labelling the attack “sustained and unprovoked”.

They also noted he was already on five good behaviour bonds, handed down two months ago, “for serious violent offences committed whilst he was intoxicated”.

Defence solicitor Claire Carpenter said Bortic would refrain from using taxis and would attend a pre-existing drug and alcohol counselling appointment next week, if granted bail.

However, Registrar Tina McKenna refused bail, noting Bortic had “quite a history” for violent offences.

The case returns to court Monday.