Petition Commercial Passenger Vehicle driver accreditation cancellations

The Petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the cancellation of Commercial Passenger Vehicle (CPV) driver accreditation for non-payment of annual fees.

The CPV driver accreditation, formerly known as Taxi Driver accreditation, is being cancelled due to non-payment of the $34 annual fee with only one notice given to drivers three months in advance. Once cancelled drivers must reapply for a new accreditation, a process that takes 20 days or longer and costs $76.30.

This practice is impacting many CPV drivers who are still confused about the annual fee, which was introduced a few years ago again after the annual fee perpetuation was cancelled. Consequently, numerous drivers who depend on CPV driving for their livelihood are left jobless for at least 20 days upon missing the annual fee payment, this is unfair.

A more compassionate approach should be considered, including a final reminder and a grace period for paying the annual fee. Such measures would prevent drivers and their families from enduring financial hardships, especially during a time of increasing living costs.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to consider a compassionate approach to the cancellation of Commercial Passenger Vehicle driver accreditation for non-payment of annual fees, issue an additional notice to drivers before the cancellation and implement a temporary suspension that could be lifted upon payment of the annual fee.