Transport Legislation (Taxi Services) Amendment Bill 2015

Overview

This bill adds demerit points to the traffic history of anyone caught providing a taxi service without a licence or peak demand taxi permit. It was introduced as a private member's bill in 2015 to crack down on unlicensed operators (including early ride-share services) that the sponsor said were undermining the regulated taxi industry.

Who it affects

Drivers operating taxis or ride-share vehicles without a licence face demerit points on top of existing fines. Licensed taxi operators gain stronger enforcement against unlicensed competitors.

Key changes

• 3 demerit points added for providing a taxi service without a licence or peak demand taxi permit
• 6 demerit points for a repeat offence within 1 year of a previous offence
• Demerit points apply whether the offence ends in a conviction, a paid fine, or a State Penalties Enforcement Registry order
• Updates the definition of 'traffic history' so these new demerit points are recognised by the wider driver licensing system
• Extends the State Penalties Enforcement Act infringement-notice framework to cover section 70 taxi offences