Next steps for on-demand transport reform

• Consultation on taxi green paper closed on October 16, 2015 

The State Government has completed consultation on its taxi green paper, making progress towards delivering a safe, flexible and level playing field for the on-demand transport industry.

Transport Minister Dean Nalder confirmed 5,831 responses had been received since the July release of the Government's On-Demand Transport - Discussion Paper for Future Innovation.

Thanking those who provided input, Mr Nalder said the Government was working hard to improve the sector by engaging with taxi and omnibus operators, delivering driver education programs and improving technology.

"In Western Australia, changing consumer expectations, the emergence of new players and several reports looking at WA's taxi industry have made it clear that the current rules and regulations for on-demand transport need a significant overhaul," he said.

Over coming weeks, the Department of Transport will consider all the feedback, publish a summary on its website and start drafting a final report for the Government to consider.

"While it's too early to provide specific details about the issues raised, there is a clear sense that the community and industry support change.  Our challenge now is to work through all of the responses, including some comprehensive submissions received last week," the Minister said.

Mr Nalder said the Department of Transport had engaged finance experts PwC to finalise costing and pricing models for potential licensing fee scenarios outlined in the green paper and propose transition assistance options for taxi plate owners.

"The outcome of this work will help inform our decision making to create fair operating conditions for all and ensure licence fees are as low as possible and do not create barriers to enter the industry.  We are fully investigating these matters, aided by the feedback we have received, before final decisions are made," he said.

"Industry and businesses will be given time to consider how they can best make the new system work for them.  While we are all keen for change, we will need a smooth transition to any new system.

"We are focused on reform that provides safe and reliable services for consumers, more choice for drivers, increased competition, and an industry that is accountable for the services it delivers."

For more information, visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/greenpaper

Fact File

• 103 written responses from industry, drivers, customers and stakeholders

• 792 online survey responses, 134 interviews with drivers, 3,188 campaign emails supporting ridesharing and 1,315 campaign emails supporting the taxi industry

• 299 community members completed a questionnaire on the discussion paper 

Minister's office - 6552 6400