Safe Transport Victoria officers were busy during this year’s Labour Day weekend, with the safety regulator’s compliance and engagement teams combining for a united presence at the Australian Grand Prix and the Moomba Festival.
A taskforce of Safe Transport Victoria officers stopped and inspected more than 400 taxi and rideshare vehicles at the Australian Grand Prix, with more than 80 per cent of drivers and vehicles meeting regulatory requirements.
Many more vehicles were given a quick inspection as they moved through the busy ranks, to check for visible safety issues without slowing passenger movements.
Inspectors checked that all drivers and vehicles were properly accredited, that vehicles were registered and in good condition, that vehicles displayed the new mandatory QR codes introduced as part of the Victorian Government’s CPV reforms, and that taxis had their meters switched on.
The mandatory QR code links passengers directly to information about their rights and how to make a complaint.
Those not meeting driver or vehicle requirements were issued with either an infringement, warning or defect notice.
Drivers and vehicle owners must meet CPV regulations to legally and safely offer services in Victoria. Information on these regulations can be found at: https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/on-the-road/
Meanwhile, the Safe Transport Victoria engagement team worked directly with the public at taxi and rideshare pickup points across the Grand Prix and Moomba, speaking directly to over 15,000 passengers over 5 days about their rights and how to lodge a complaint with the regulator if something goes wrong.
Engagement staff handed out branded collateral and snacks to reinforce the key messages.
All rideshare and taxi drivers are reminded they must display a QR codes in their vehicles. CPV drivers can download a copy of the free QR code here: https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/news/qr-codes-the-first-reforms-now-rolling-out/
Combining compliance and engagement activity across the Australian Grand Prix and Moomba weekend strengthened passenger awareness of ST Vic’s regulatory remit and how to lodge complaints.