Released 25/07/2017
Taxi reform – licence release to increase transport options for all Canberrans
Minister for Regulatory Services Gordon Ramsay today announced the staged release of additional taxi licences from 1 March 2017 as part of the ACT Government’s taxi reform agenda.
“The ACT Government has continued to review the on-demand transport market to ensure greater consumer choice, sustainability and long-term competitiveness,” Minister Ramsay said.
“With the introduction of international flights at Canberra Airport and growing demand for taxi licences, the ACT Government will lift its freeze on the lease of 50 currently unavailable government-owned taxi licences to promote competition and help meet demand.
“From 1 March 2017, 10 additional taxi licences will be released each quarter up to the regulated cap of 358, subject to ongoing consideration of market conditions. The cap will not change.
“The government is committed to improving the public transport sector in the ACT to ensure all Canberrans have access to affordable, convenient, safe and better integrated transport options into the future,” Minister Ramsay said.
In the lead up to this decision, the government has consulted with and listened to a range of stakeholder views and examined available market data. A staged release will allow existing industry participants to adapt to the changes in the market and ensure growing demand can be met.
There is a substantial demand for unreleased government-owned taxi plates. A formal wait list and qualification process is in place to address demand as these plates are released.
Taxi reforms such as the reduction in taxi licence fees from $10,000 to $5000 have endeavoured to level the playing field for the taxi and hire car industry to ensure a more competitive and accessible service.
The ACT Government has led the nation when it comes to taxi reform and ridesharing services, and will continue to monitor the ACT taxi industry to ensure these market changes are working effectively. An evaluation of the Taxi Industry Innovation Reforms will be undertaken to review reform outcomes and supply arrangements.
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
Media contact/s:
Alexandra Craig T (02) 6207 0881 M 0435 094 304 E alexandra.craig@act.gov.au
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Gordon Ramsay, MLA | Media Releases