The newly re-formed Taxi Industry Board (TIB) last night held its first meeting with Transport Minister Simon O'Brien.

Mr O’Brien said TIB’s role will be to provide strategic advice for improvements within the taxi industry.

"The taxi sector plays a key role in the State’s public transport network. It is therefore important that the issues that affect it and its customers are formally communicated to the State Government,” he said.

"I anticipate that the TIB will bring to my attention the various issues within the industry that require immediate action. TIB members will also advise on proposals for grants from monies of the Taxi Industry Development Account (TIDA).

“A seven-member board comprising people with extensive experience in transportation, logistics, disability services, taxi services, academia and management has been appointed.

"I am confident that the board will provide an important, independent and credible link between the taxi industry and State Government.

"I would like to acknowledge the counsel of the previously announced TIB Chairman, Barry MacKinnon, who played a key role in advising on these new board appointments.”

The six new board members are:

• Professor Greg Martin, Deputy Chairperson: Former Director General of the Department for Planning and Infrastructure  
  
  
• Mr Bruce Morgan: CEO of Courier Australia
  
  
• Mr Tony Carter: Executive Director of Crime Stoppers, former CEO of RAC Insurance
  
  
• Mr Stephen Scott: Extensive consumer of taxi services with human resources management experience
  
  
• Ms Debbie Karasinski: CEO of Senses Foundation, Chairperson of the Disability Sector CEO Round Table
  
  
• Dr Martin West: Professor at Curtin Business School.

The Minister also announced the establishment of a Taxi Industry Board Reference Group (TIBRG).

“The reference group's role will be to provide the TIB with industry and consumer views on taxi policies,” Mr O’Brien said.

“This meeting marks the beginning of an exciting new direction in Government relations with the Perth taxi industry.”

Minister's office - 9213 6400

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