A WIMMERA taxi provider says a suggested $2 surcharge per ride seems “illogical”.
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Premier Daniel Andrews said the state government would do away with taxi licences and provide $378 million to help existing licence holders.
It would also set up a $75 million ‘fairness fund’ to assist those experiencing immediate financial hardship, with $25 million going to improve access for people with a disability.
The $2 levy would help finance the transition.
Horsham Taxis owner-manager Carmel Healy said the state government changes could hurt taxi users.
“The idea of a $2 surcharge per trip seems totally illogical, lacking in detail and a timeline,” she said.
“Horsham and district people need to know that fares will not change in the immediate future.
“According to the government, any fee changes will not be enforced until 2018.
“We sincerely hope that at some future time, the Andrews government doesn’t force us to hand on this charge to Horsham and district, under the guise of giving the community a better ride.”
State Member for Lowan Emma Kealy also hit out at the changes.
“Daniel Andrews promised no new taxes or fees, but is now going to implement a $2 per trip tax on country communities not serviced by ride-share company, Uber,” Ms Kealy said.
“This new tax is simply unfair and unreasonable.
“Rural communities, particularly pensioners and those with a disability who rely on taxis as their only form of transport, will now be slugged this new tax to benefit Melbourne.”
Ms Healy said changes were needed but questioned whether the government announcement would do more harm than good.
“We certainly welcome the fact that the government recognises the unfairness of the current system, which heavily regulates taxis,” she said.
“On the other hand, ride-share drivers haven’t had to pass police, medical and driving history checks.
“Ride-share drivers also are not required to have a vehicle to effectively transport disabled passengers.”