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Community facilities | August 26, 2016

Labor’s Uber tax unfair to rural people

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP says the Melbourne Labor Government has again broken an election promise by imposing a new Uber tax across Victoria.

“Daniel Andrews promised no new taxes or fees, but is now going to implement a $2 per trip tax on country communities not serviced by ride-share company, Uber,” Ms Kealy said.

“This new tax is simply unfair and unreasonable. Rural communities, particularly pensioners and those with a disability who rely on taxis as their only form of transport, will now be slugged this new tax to benefit Melbourne.

“Many of our smaller communities have limited access to various public transport options and this new tax will make local transport more expensive,” she said.

The Labor Government is proposing – “All commercial passenger vehicle providers charge a levy equivalent to $2 per trip to fund the transition to the new system including support for existing licence holders during the transition.”

“Regional communities should not be burdened by reforms resulting from Melbourne’s Uber ride-sharing service,” Ms Kealy said.

“Our local taxi drivers will become a tax collection agency for the Andrews Labor Government.

“Pensioners should not have to pay the Premier’s new Uber tax just to visit the doctor or go grocery shopping. A return taxi ride for someone attending a medical appointment or doing their shopping will cost an additional $4 or more, under this new tax introduced by the Melbourne Labor Government.

“Our local taxi drivers and taxi business operators provide a wonderful service within our regional communities, with many local people and families depending on their reliable and friendly service.

“Labor promised no new taxes or levies on the eve of the last State election and has now introduced yet another tax without any consultation with the public or industry stakeholders,” she said.