SYKES – MEDIA ALERT – TAXI CRISIS

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, says the announcement of the increase to the Multi-Purpose Taxi Program from $550 to $1000 is a small victory for commonsense.

Dr Sykes said, “This is a step in the right direction and will assist Victoria’s disabled and frail to access basic medical and community services.

Dr Sykes said, “The announcement follows months of community based pressure, strongly supported by The Nationals. We are pleased with the back flip, however, the Government has failed to address the inequities of subsidies for wheel chair access taxis. Melbourne based taxi operators still receive generous subsidies (ie. $1,300 per year – per car, plus booking subsidies of $3.30) for which country operators are not eligible.

“I, along with my Nationals colleagues, will continue fight to ensure that the Government’s proposed review of country taxi services produces outcomes and prompt action to correct the current discrimination against country taxi operators.”

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989