Nicholls and the LNP are too little too late on tow truck rip off

Queensland Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey has slammed the LNP's sudden interest in rogue tow operators after they failed to address the issue during their three years in government with a record majority, and while an independent investigation into the sector is advancing. 

Mr Bailey said Tim Nicholls as Campbell Newman's Treasurer, did nothing to investigate or reform the tow truck industry despite one of the hotspots being in the heart of his Clayfield electorate. 

“It is well known the Palaszczuk Government’s independent inquiry into the tow truck industry, led by former district court judge Michael Forde, is due to be handed down in the coming months,” Mr Bailey said.  

“After being clueless at what was happening under his nose for so long, Tim Nicholls and the LNP are now trying to pre-empt the outcomes of the independent investigation and claim credit for the Palaszczuk Government's swift action.

“This is also disrespectful to the many Queenslanders who have given evidence to the investigation via submissions and calling the towies complaints hotline.

“As at 16 June 2017, more than 600 Queenslanders have called the hotline and provided input to the investigation, with suburbs between Fortitude Valley and Eagle Farm – including Ascot and Hamilton - accounting for nearly 50% of all complaints received to date.

“Instead of now going off like a bull in a china shop, the LNP should support the investigation and properly consider the findings of Mr Forde who has extensive legal expertise and is highly respected in the community.

“The Palaszczuk Government had a gutful of the unscrupulous practices within the tow truck industry and that’s why we acted swiftly to start a proper and thorough investigation.”

Mr Bailey said the scope of the Palaszczuk Government’s investigation was focusing on the removal of parked vehicles from private property and private roads and what reform could be undertaken to clean-up the industry.

“The practice of removing parked vehicles on private property by tow truck operators is not currently subject to regulation and is causing considerable community concern,” Mr Bailey said.

“Mr Forde is currently examining public submissions and will report back to me by mid-August.”

ENDS

Media Contact: Amy Hunter- 0423651484