Tuesday, 8 March 2022

Taxi fares

Mr BARTON (Eastern Metropolitan) (12:08): My question is for the Attorney-General, representing the Assistant Treasurer. When comparing Victorian taxi fares to Queensland, the kilometre rate for Victorian taxis is on average 27 per cent less and the waiting time fare is 30 per cent less. When compared to Western Australia, the kilometre rate is 7 per cent less and the waiting time fare is 27 per cent less. But when we compare ourselves with New South Wales, the kilometre rate is on average 40 per cent less and the waiting time fare is 56 per cent less. It is clear the Victorian taxi fares are the lowest in the country, yet it was reported in the press only last week that the Essential Services Commission would consider reducing fares further. So I ask: what will the minister do to fix this appalling travesty for some of the lowest paid and most vulnerable workers in the country?

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Leader of the Government, Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:09): I thank Mr Barton for his question. It is a really good question, and it deserves a comprehensive answer from the relevant minister. I will pass that on accordingly.

Mr BARTON (Eastern Metropolitan) (12:09): Thank you, Attorney. Since the last taxi fare increase eight long years ago, the executive team at the Essential Services Commission in the same period have received a pay increase of 24 per cent. Meanwhile, taxidrivers have only had one fare increase in the past 14 years. In the past year fuel prices rose by 32 per cent—the biggest annual increase in 32 years. Now we are seeing reports of fuel soaring to over $2 a litre. The minister understands the industry has completely lost confidence in the Essential Services Commission. There is now an urgent review required, not in 12 months time but today. So my supplementary question is: will the minister urge the Essential Services Commission to conduct an accelerated fare review in light of the severe cost-of-living pressures being experienced by Victorian taxidrivers?

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Leader of the Government, Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:10): I thank Mr Barton for his question; he is well across his brief. I will provide his supplementary to the minister and furnish an answer according to the standing orders.