Taxi paper paves way for reform

Taxi and Uber drivers are set to compete on a level playing field after Transport Minister Dean Nalder revealed the state government’s green paper into the industry. 

The paper, which will be open to public consultation for three months, proposes red tape reduction and deregulated fares for booked journeys, which will no longer be metered.

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Corporatisation of plates is also proposed, with holders able to own more than the current limit of six, but there was no firm signal if the number of plates would become uncapped.

Drivers would be able to use multiple dispatch services, while dispatchers will be able to refuse drivers.

Mr Nalder said the draft changes would focus on choice.

"We're seeking to deliver an equal playing field that provides a safe and reliable service for passengers and drivers, with increased competition and responsibility for the delivery of a quality service at a fair price,” he said.

“While it is recognised that taxi plate investors have purchased plates in good faith, the economic value of a business should be based on a superior customer proposition rather than the scarcity of supply or government regulation.”

Industry players will meet on Thursday for a briefing from the state government.

Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Australia (CCI) chief executive officer Deidre Willmott said it would be the first step towards a more competitive taxi industry.

“The release of the Green Paper is timely given the growth of commercial ridesharing services in WA and recommendations by the Economic Regulation Authority and Competition Policy Review Panel that taxi regulation should be overhauled,” she said.

“Reform must recognise the role of technology and new approaches, such as ride sharing, as part of the new normal for the taxi industry without restricting the competitiveness of any one player.”