Combining the public transport and roads portfolios under one Ministry promises a considered vision for mobility across the state says Transport Matters Party leader Rod Barton.
The Andrews Labor Government announced its new cabinet today with Member for Niddrie Ben Carroll stepping into the portfolio of Public Transport and Roads and Road Safety.
“This gives us an opportunity to look at the big picture of mobility across the state as we recover from Covid-19 and consider physical distancing, congestion, road safety and public transport integration as an interconnected system,” says Mr Barton.
“I look forward to working with Minister Carroll as we progress the Covid-19 support package for the commercial passenger vehicle industry, consider and implement recommendations from the inquiry into the 2017 CPV Reforms and work to grow our CPV service industry as part of the whole transport solution.”
Minister Carroll replaces Melissa Horne as Minister for Public Transport, whose portfolio included the turbulent commercial passenger vehicle industry, which has suffered from an explosion in operators from ride share groups, passenger and driver safety problems and the burden of debt for incumbent drivers and operators saddled with massive debts when their licenses were revoked.
Victoria is the only state that is yet to announce a Covid-19 support package for frontline taxi operators who have yet to recover from reforms, and have struggled more since airport, event and business transport sources have been shut down by Government.
“The Advisory Panel’s recommendations are with Government I look forward to Minister Carroll’s support in seeing these desperately needed measures through Cabinet and delivered to the industry.
“The Andrews Government has had its hands full this year, but it’s now time to get on with it and address the mess that the commercial passenger vehicle industry has become since the reforms of 2017,” he says.
“I would like to pass on my thanks to Minister Horne and Minister Pulford for their willingness to listen to my case as I have progressed my CPV agenda. Unhindered access to them has made the process easier, and I wish them both well in their new ministries.”
ENDS
