16 October 2020

Michael Ferguson, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport

Future-proofing Tasmania’s transport industry

Legislation to level the playing field for the taxi and ride-sourcing industries has been supported by the Legislative Council without amendments.

This legislation will provide consumers with more choice and improved quality of service and safety.

We recognise the impact the changing environment has had on the taxi industry, with the introduction of the ride-sourcing sector, which is why we are assisting the industry to adapt.

The On-Demand Passenger Transport Services Industry (Miscellaneous Amendments) legislation creates a modernised and more equitable regulatory framework for taxis, hire vehicles and ride-sourcing services.

For consumers, the changes promote safety, increased choice, and provide for the development of a voluntary Code of Conduct and Service Quality for the taxi industry.

Key elements of the reform include:

• The annual release of new owner-operator taxi licences by tender will be suspended for a further four years. However, the Transport Commission will be able to issue licences where there is unmet demand;
• Reserve prices will be set by the Tasmanian Economic Regulator, and are not to be reduced by more than 10 per cent annually for the first five years;
• Regulatory and compliance costs will be lower for most existing operators;
• Multiple hirers for taxis will be allowed, providing benefits to consumers, and parity between taxis and ride-sourcing providers;
• A chain of responsibility model for safety will be introduced, with licencees, booking service providers and drivers held responsible for compliance as it relates to their role;
• Drivers will be regulated to ensure they are suitable to provide commercial passenger services; and
• Vehicles will be regulated to ensure they are safe to be transporting passengers.

This important legislation will future-proof the industry, meaning Tasmanians will be able to continue accessing this vital service.

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