Media Release
February 17, 2016
The peak body representing Queensland’s taxi industry has called for more secure and better resourced taxi ranks while vowing to do all it can to ensure the expected new lockout laws are workable and sustainable.
Taxi Council Queensland Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Wash says earlier lockout times will generate greater demand for taxi services and this is one of the many issues that require a consultative approach moving forward.
“Earlier lockout and last drinks times mean more patrons will need taxi services at the same time, so more cabs need to be on the road to effectively service peak demand.
“The challenge now for the taxi industry, governments and police is to make these precincts as safe as possible.”
Mr Wash said more secure ranks will be needed in entertainment precincts state wide to handle the increased volume.
“The incidence of violence is likely to fall if people can walk to a rank just metres from where they last exited and that means we need ranks established right outside all late night venues – the less time people are on the street, the less alcohol-fuelled violence we are likely to see.”
ENDS