Qld Gov reform to support public transport operators

The Palaszczuk Government has announced it will slash the regulatory burden for bus and other public transport operators, to support the industry as part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery.

In a move expected to save operators more than $1.5 million each year and generate business for local automotive shops, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said from mid-2021, inspections would move to an annual basis and light public transport vehicles would have the option to be inspected at local approved inspection stations.

For operators in remote areas, the reforms will allow both heavy and light public passenger transport vehicles to be inspected at a local station instead of TMR inspection centres.

The reforms bring the industry into line with personalised transport services like taxis, limousine and booked hire vehicles.

“This move adds to our record $26.9 billion road and transport investment program, as well as support measures introduced during COVID-19 as part of a $54.5 million essential transport stimulus package,” Mr Bailey said.

“These changes will support our hard-working transport industry who told us they wanted red tape slashed, and also provide additional business opportunities for approved inspection stations, with an estimated additional 3,000 inspections expected statewide every year.

“Public transport was hit hard by COVID-19 with patronage in many areas dropping by as much as 80 per cent, but thanks to the strong response of Queenslanders, the Palaszczuk Government has been able to deliver Queensland’s economic recovery plan – which includes supporting business and creating jobs.

“We’re helping public transport operators in the transition to electric buses, building better roads and more busways like the extension to Springwood, and we’re providing more relief.

“This will create more revenue and jobs for local mechanical businesses, maintaining strong and resilient communities, especially in remote and regional areas.”

To ensure high safety standards are maintained continued on-road enforcement and targeted operations will be used to monitor the condition of the public passenger transport fleet, anytime and anywhere.

Queensland Bus Industry Council Executive Director David Tape said:

“This initiative by the Palaszczuk government led by Minister Bailey is truly welcomed by our Industry.

“It highlights the collaborative relationship our Industry has with the Minister and our mutual goal to slash red tape, to deliver more productivity benefits to the work horse of our passenger transport network in Queensland.

“This will not only benefit the bus and coach Industry across our State, but also other businesses in our regional areas, providing business sustainability, secure employment and the opportunity for Apprenticeships.”

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078