TAXI INSPECTORS

263 Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (21 October 2008). Are taxi inspectors trained by the department and what other aspects of the taxi industry are these inspectors responsible for?

The Hon. P.F. CONLON (Elder—Minister for Transport, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Energy): I am advised:

Transport Safety Compliance Officers (the Officers) recently completed Certificate IV in Government (Statutory Compliance) in Road Transport Compliance and Investigations through registered training organisations including Adelaide TAFE. This training has them placed as the most qualified Officers in Australia to undertake compliance activities within the public transport sector.

The Officers are trained in applying legislation under the Passenger Transport Act 1994 and Regulations, Road Traffic Act 1961 and Regulations, and the Motor Vehicles Act 1959.

The Officers provide a compliance service primarily across the taxi and limousine industry and to a lesser extent the bus industry. Using their various legislative authorities the Officers conduct the following road compliance examinations/verifications:

vehicle roadworthiness to ensure the safety of passengers, the driver and other road users

taxi identification and accreditation

ensure drivers are booked into the Central Booking Station through the PIN system

taxi security cameras (ie is fitted and operating correctly)

current vehicle inspection labels

drivers and vehicle registration & licensing requirements

vehicle & driver presentation and image

correct information and taxi identification displayed on the vehicle

equipment (including meters are fitted correctly and working in line with legislation; and

driver behaviour and general responsibilities.