Released 25/07/2017
Minister for Regulatory Services Gordon Ramsay has today announced five additional wheelchair accessible taxi licences will be released to the Canberra market in June 2017.
“The ACT Government is committed to making Canberra an accessible, inclusive city and it is important we have on-demand transport options readily available. This will ensure that everyone in our community has access to safe and effective travel,” Mr Ramsay said.
“Stakeholders have indicated that we need more accessible taxis and I’m glad the Government can do our part to encourage better transport services for Canberrans that rely on these transport options.”
”People living with disability experience challenges on a daily basis in accessing the transport they need to live their lives – from getting to and from public transport, entering and exiting vehicles, through to having accessible taxis available when required. Taxis play a significant role in providing point-to-point transport. More accessible vehicles on the road means greater availability of services and choice for those who need it.”
In February 2017, the Government indicated that, subject to ongoing market conditions and evidence from industry stakeholders, it would release 10 government-leased standard taxi licences each quarter from 1 March 2017. The release would be up to the regulated cap as part of its work in ensuring a competitive and accessible service.
“We are listening to the feedback from the industry and adjusting arrangements to ensure the on demand transport requirements of Canberrans are being met no matter where they live or what their accessibility needs are,” Mr Ramsay said.
“The demand for booked wheelchair accessible taxi services has grown significantly since the cap of 26 licences was set in 2001. Appropriately, community stakeholders have expressed their desire for accessible services to be prioritised.”
“We will continue to examine the on-demand transport market to ensure greater consumer choice, service quality, and accessibility and look forward to the community’s feedback in the coming months as we conduct an evaluation of the 2015 Taxi Industry Innovation Reforms.”
The leasing of a taxi licence is a private commercial decision and parties should ensure that it meets their objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Parties may wish to seek the assistance of a qualified adviser.
- Statement ends -
Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases