EFTPOS to be trialled in taxis

12/2/96

Perth taxi drivers may soon offer customers the convenience and security of paying for their fares with 'plastic money'.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton today announced that 50 electronic terminals would be trialled in Swan and Black and White Taxis for a six-to-nine month period.

"The introduction of EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) in cabs would not only make the payment of fares easier, but require drivers to carry less cash and contribute to a much safer industry environment," Mr Charlton said.

Cabcharge Australia initiated the Perth scheme as the world's largest trial of mobile EFTPOS in taxis across the nation.  Within a few years, it has been estimated that up to 85 per cent of cabs in Australia will be using the technology.

Mr Charlton said electronic terminals in taxis were designed to accept all current payment cards including bank issued debit and credit EFTPOS, a range of charge cards and the new generation 'stored value' smart cards.

"Taxi owners and operators have been encouraged to pay greater attention to their personal safety by adopting other security measures and installing electronic terminals in cabs will assist greatly," he said.

"The electronic payments trial is another example of how the taxi industry is responding to customer needs and recognising growing markets in business, tourism and everyday travel."

Mr Charlton said the success of the trial might also have flow-on benefits such as improvements to the Taxi Users' Subsidy Scheme.

Media contact:  Ian Hasleby 321 7333