Today Rod Barton MP successfully moved amendments that will deliver a modest fare increase of 2.5% to taxi drivers from July 1stof this year.
This will address the fact that these taxi drivers have had only 1 fare increase in the past 13 years.
Previously the Essential Services Commission determined maximum taxi fares. This amendment will change that, the Fair Work Commission's Annual Wage Review will determine potential increases in maximum taxi fares.
Barton believes these amendments are a step forward for the industry, enabling taxi businesses to survive and continue delivering essential services to the Victorian community.
These amendments had the support of the entire legislative council except for the Liberal Democrat MPs David Limbrick and Tim Quilty. Barton is disappointed that the Liberal Democrats did not support essential small businesses by delivering a fare increase to Victoria's vulnerable transport workers.
Taxi fares are critical when determining the financial viability of taxi services. Taxi drivers receive no superannuation, no sick leave, no annual leave, and no carers leave. That is why these amendments are so important.
Barton will continue to advocate for workers to be entitled to fair wages and fair working conditions.
Barton believes the support from the Andrews Labor Government on these amendments provides great hope for the future of the commercial passenger vehicle industry.
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan and the Leader of the Transport Matters Party Rod Barton MP:
"These amendments are needed. Our essential Victorian taxi workers deserve a fare increase. I have heard many stories of taxi drivers earning less than half the minimum wage."
"These transport workers had fallen through the cracks. These amendments will deliver a fair fare increase for these workers. It will also ensure that there is a review of taxi fares each year."
"This will be the first fare increase in 7 years. This absolutely critical to the survival of the taxi industry."
