The State Government has supported a States and Territories’ plan to adopt National Taxi Driver Competency Units and a National Minimum English Standard.

Transport Minister Simon O’Brien, speaking after the Federal and State Transport Ministers’ meeting, said the scheme would involve taxi drivers across Australia being required to pass a nationally-consistent testing regime.

“Currently, interstate drivers are taking advantage of a national protocol allowing them to transfer their taxi accreditation to our jurisdiction,” Mr O’Brien said.

“This enables these drivers to work in Western Australia without passing this State’s testing standard.

“I am concerned these drivers are getting their WA taxi licence and hitting our streets without having to undergo the rigorous assessment applied to WA-based cab drivers.

“A nationally consistent testing regime will mean all taxi drivers have to attain a minimum required standard and this should be welcomed by their customers.”

The Minister said he was acutely aware of community attitudes towards some lacking standards in the industry and was confident the national approach would eradicate any excuses for these low standards.

“Everyone has a horror story about a driver who did not know where they were going or who had sub-standard English speaking skills,” he said.

“The new measures will create a level playing field and taxi drivers new to WA will be required to meet the national standards - despite whether their accreditation is gained here or interstate.”

The scheme is scheduled to start on July 1, 2010. 

Minister's office - 9213 6400

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