8. Dr JACKIE BLUE (National) Link to this
to the Minister of Transport
What steps is the Government considering to improve taxi driver safety?
Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister of Transport) Link to this
Yesterday I met with representatives from the taxi industry to discuss options for improving the safety of taxi drivers. After considering all the options, the industry representatives and officials believe that mandating for cameras to be installed in taxis in the main centres would bring the greatest benefits. That is widely supported by the industry. It is unfortunate that we have to consider this step, but two drivers have been murdered recently, and the number of serious assaults has been increasing over the last decade. It is my intention to take recommendations to Cabinet shortly.
In Australia cameras have proven to be effective in reducing violence against drivers by around 70 percent, and they have reduced fare evasion by a similar amount. In addition, the cameras provide enhanced safety for passengers and can be used by the police when investigating other crimes where the offender has used a taxi. I stress that any introduction of cameras into taxis would be accompanied by rules governing the use of images, to protect the privacy of passengers.