Annual Report 2008-2009 - Department of Transport

Geraldton taxi camera trial
While it is mandatory for taxi security cameras to be fitted to metropolitan
taxis under the current regulatory framework, it is not mandatory for
cameras to be fitted to country taxis.
Recommendation 23 of the Report on the Review of the Operation and
Regulatory Structure of the Taxi Industry in Regional Western Australia
proposed that security cameras must be fitted in all new country taxis,
where the country town in which the taxi operates meets certain criteria (i.e.
the town has a population of 5000 or more and there are at least five taxis).
The Mid-West City of Geraldton fits these criteria.
The Geraldton taxi security camera trial was finalised on 31 July 2008. It was
funded by the Government and allowed for all 24 taxis operating in Geraldton
(seven maxi taxis and 17 sedans) to be fitted with security cameras. At the
completion of the trial the cameras became the property of the Geraldton
taxi operators.
Overall, the Geraldton taxi security camera trial proved to be a resounding
success as it has had a significant impact on the safety and welfare of
Geraldton taxi drivers. The vast majority of drivers reported feeling safer
with the camera installed. In addition, reports of fare evasions have been
minimal and there was a reduction in serious incidents reported.
*This activity also relates to Goal 4.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Extension of optional peak period taxi operating hours
To balance customer expectations with taxi driver viability, peak period
taxis continue to operate on weekday mornings, during the hours of 5am to
9am, but only on a rostered basis. The Minister for Transport approved the
commencement of this new post-trial program from 14 April 2009 and it is
being monitored closely by the Department.
Despite recent decline, performance data indicates that customer demand
for taxi services continues to be high.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
‘Green’ taxi evaluation
The ‘green’ taxi trial evaluation was undertaken by the Passenger Services
Business Unit to determine the viability of the use of ‘green’ taxis, otherwise
known as hybrid vehicles, in the taxi industry.
Figures obtained as part of the evaluation strongly confirm that hybrid
vehicles are viable as taxis – with low fuel consumption and maintenance
costs and no reported vehicle problems.
The ‘green’ taxis trial customer satisfaction survey also indicated strong
customer support. All respondents advised that they would use a ‘green’ taxi
in the future and 99 per cent of respondents supported more environmentally
friendly taxis on WA roads.
*This activity also relates to Goal 3.
www.transport.wa.gov.au/taxis
Goal 1
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