The most comprehensive overhaul of the taxi and on-demand transport industry in Western Australia's history has entered its third and final stage.
The transition to passenger transport driver (PTD) authorisations completes the significant reform package that has been implemented over the last two years under the Transport (Road Passenger Services) Act 2018.
The reform has seen on-demand booking services, vehicles and now passenger transport drivers require authorisation and to accept new safety obligations and responsibilities.
From today (July 1), drivers entering the passenger transport industry must apply for the new PTD authorisation, while drivers already working in the industry have 12 months to transition to the new arrangement.
A PTD authorisation allows drivers to transport passengers in any type of vehicle appropriate to their driver's licence class - a simpler system that allows more flexibility for drivers.
Drivers will be assessed against a list of serious criminal and traffic offences that, if committed, will disqualify them from holding a PTD authorisation either permanently or for periods of 10 years, five years or 12 months.
Drivers who currently hold F (charter) or T (taxi) driver's licence extensions can continue to drive passengers under their current authorisation until June 30, 2021, but must have a PTD authorisation to continue driving passengers after that date.
There is a $28 application fee for the first time drivers apply for a PTD authorisation and an $88 annual authorisation fee which goes towards covering the cost of ongoing safety monitoring - previously this cost has been covered by the taxpayer.
Current F and T extension holders who apply for a PTD authorisation before October 30, 2020 will have their first year's authorisation fee waived.
More information about on-demand transport reform and the new PTD authorisations is available on the Department of Transport's website.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The historic on-demand transport reforms we have implemented have delivered a safer and more accountable industry for passengers, drivers and other road users.
"The reforms have also provided more flexibility for those working in the industry, allowing them to better tailor their businesses to suit their needs and adapt to changing customer requirements.
"This final stage of reform - the move to PTD authorisations - clarifies in regulation what constitutes a fit and proper person to transport passengers, adding to the culture of safety that is at the heart of the industry reform.
"I recognise that change is not always easy and I commend the passenger transport industry for coming with us on this journey."
