NSW Government Introduces Penalties for Non-compliance
SYDNEY — Vision Australia has expressed approval of the New South Wales Government’s decision to impose fines on taxi providers who refuse passengers using the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS). The new regulation, announced this week, will see fines up to $3,000 for non-compliance.
According to Vision Australia, this measure is a significant step towards ensuring that people who are blind or have low vision can rely on taxi services without discrimination. Bruce Maguire, Lead Policy Advisor at Vision Australia, highlighted the importance of the TTSS in facilitating independence for these individuals. The organisation believes that these fines will enforce compliance and encourage taxi providers to adhere to the regulations, promoting fair treatment.
In addition, Vision Australia is calling for more robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure that these fines are effectively imposed and that taxi services do not discriminate against TTSS users. They are also advocating for continuous monitoring and evaluation of the impact of these fines on service quality and availability.
Call for Rideshare Inclusion
Despite the positive move, Vision Australia is advocating for the TTSS to be extended to rideshare services, pointing out the benefits witnessed in Victoria’s Multi-Purpose Taxi Program. Maguire emphasised the demand from the community for more transport options and the need for improved enforcement of the fines. Extending the scheme to include rideshare services would increase accessibility and provide more choices for people with disabilities, enhancing their mobility and independence.
Vision Australia is hopeful that the government will consider this extension as a next step in their commitment to improving transport accessibility for all residents. The organisation continues to work closely with policymakers to ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and that their transport needs are met effectively.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:29 am
