DRIVE A2B Magazine November Issue 2020

DRIVE

Voice of the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry

NOVEMBER 2020 | EDITION 40

Freedom is just around the corner!

Be Safe.

Help make COVID-19 take a backseat.

National Magazine

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

AUSTRALIA’S ONLY MAGAZINE

Editor

FOR THE

Publisher

Taxi, Hire Car, Limo and On-Demand Transport Industry

4,200

Mrs Toni Peters

Trade Promotions Pty Ltd PO Box 2345 Mount Waverley VIC 3149

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Views expressed in any article in DRIVE A2B magazine are those of the individual contributor and not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any opinions, information, errors or omissions in this publication. To the extent permitted by law, the publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising from the contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damage. Advertisements must comply with the relevant provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Responsibility for compliance with the Act rests with the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement.

DRIVE A2BTM is wholly owned by Trade Promotions Pty Ltd. © Trade Promotions Pty Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. Copyright of articles and photographs in DRIVE A2BTM remains with the individual contributors and may not be reproduced without permission.

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DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

QR CODES FOR NSW TAXIS

EDITION 40 www.drivea2b.com.au DRIVEA2B @DRIVEA2Ba contact@drivea2b.com.au

N AT I O N A L

8

6 18

Transport Alliance Australia report.

Moving towards zero via a safe system.

NSW

21

8 11 12 14

QR codes are rolled out.

NSW Industry statistics.

WATS Train the Trainer.

Getting to know Leonie Kyriacou.

VICTORIA 22 24 26

#Let's Melbourne Again.

Message from Rod Barton MP. New vehicle cleaning regulations.

QUEENSLAND 30

Demand Responsive Transport for Gold Coast.

C OV I D - 1 9 I N F O 11

How long COVID-19 can survive on different surfaces.

13 31

NSW Sanitisation Stations' locations.

Let's not undo all the good.

OV E R S E A S

32

38

London's taxi drivers must wear face coverings.

39

10,000 tailgaters caught on camera in two weeks.

From our Editor The atmosphere in Melbourne is somewhat coming back to normal after being in a bleak lockdown for the past four months. People are starting to move around the State, eating at restaurants and cafes and visiting friends and family. It is wonderful to see lots of traffic on the roads again, knowing that people are being transported from A to B and that our industry is on the uptake.

However, just as Victoria is recording daily zero cases, South Australia is in the grips of a COVID-19 cluster outbreak.

It goes to show that we cannot become complacent when in the company of others. The traditional handshake, hugs and kisses MUST be forgotten, at least until we have a vaccine. We must opt instead for the current greeting fashion - the bow, the nod or the wave.

We must continue to be hygienic by washing our hands with soap often and regularly wiping down any surfaces that are frequently touched by others.

4

Cleaning Regulations The Victorian Regulator (CPVV) has regulated mandatory rules for cleaning of a Commercial Passenger Vehicle (CPV) - see page 24. It is now mandatory to clean all registered CPVs after each trip, each driver, each shift, each day, and continue to keep a record of all such cleaning.

Though, funnily enough CPVV takes no responsibility in instructing the drivers on this task - instead it has handballed this responsibility off to the Booking Service Providers (BSP). The BSPs have been directed to:•

provide drivers with hand sanitisers and cleaning products, and

•

audit the drivers' cleaning activities and records.

The BSPs must also instruct drivers on the following:•

the correct manner of wearing and disposing of gloves and face masks,

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

Tips for a

GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

•

use of effective hand sanitisers,

•

use of effective disinfectants when cleaning a CPV, and

•

how to clean a CPV efficiently and effectively.

To date Victoria is the only Australian State to mandate these cleaning rules. Failure to comply with the new regulations may incur a $3,300 fine.

Contact Tracing There is movement around Australia with regards to collecting contact tracing information for those who travel in taxis, hire cars or ride share vehicles. NSW is currently trialling a QR code system that links back to Service NSW, Victoria is researching a system that will link to DHHS and 13cabs has rolled out QR code check-ins using their own passenger registration technology.

According to a recent survey conducted

by Beyond Blue partner A.H. Beard, mental health issues are the single biggest factor affecting the quality of sleep. More than half of the survey’s respondents reported poor-quality sleep due to issues such as work or financial stress (37%), anxiety (35%), and depression (22%).

Fortunately, there are things you can do to improve your chances of a deep slumber.

Here are a few to consider: • • • • • • • • • • •

No caffeine after 7pm Limit phone use Read a book before bedtime Listen to music Spray lavender in the bedroom Eat a high carb evening meal Drink warm milk before bedtime Darken the room Turn off all noise Breathing exercises Meditate

QR codes are currently also being used in Queensland, South Australia and ACT for businesses but not for taxis or ride share vehicles. Western Australia, Northern Territory and Tasmania do not appear to require record keeping in their health orders.

Beyond Blue online forums are a great way to connect with people online in a safe and anonymous environment. Discussion topics cover anxiety, depression, suicide, and a range of other life issues.

Ultimately it appears that Australia is on the COVID-19 road to recovery. Let's hope that this positive trend keeps continuing and quickly too.

Anyone in Australia can participate in discussions, connect with others and share their experiences with the on-line community.

Until next month, stay safe and stay well.

Mrs Toni Peters

DRIVE A2B Editor

www.beyondblue.org.au/ get-support/online-forums

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

5

YOUR NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Be COVID-safe

Looking after the interests of those in the Australian commercial passenger transport sector.

CPVV has confirmed that the Victorian Government is developing a customer (passenger) check-in system to support rapid contact tracing within the CPV industry.

This passenger check-in system (rapid contact tracing) will be mandatory for fleets of commercial passenger vehicles to apply to all their vehicles.

The government is aware that some organisations have already implemented such systems and they would certainly be able to continue using their existing systems, so long as it is able to integrate with DHHS’s computer system.

In NSW taxi companies are trialling an app utilising QR codes and linking back to the Service NSW Check-in app - see report on page 8.

In Victoria, face masks are mandatory while other Australian states have made them an optional item for protection against COVID-19.

In some States passengers are only allowed to sit in the back seat — other States have no such ruling.

We recommend VERY STRONGLY that face masks be worn by all drivers, even when they are not transporting passengers.

And remember that everyone MUST wear gloves and face masks when

6

sanitising a vehicle, which must be done after every trip - as you just don't know who is carrying this very harmful, very contagious virus.

Whilst ordinarily drivers should not refuse any fare, there are certain times when a driver may fear for his/ her safety and it is at these times that they definitely have the right to refuse transporting the passenger(s). This also applies to passengers who may refuse to wear a mask and cannot prove that they have an exemption to not wear one.

If the driver feels that he/she would be at risk by taking this passenger(s) who won't wear a mask, then the driver should clearly convey this to the passenger(s) and may refuse the fare.

Vehicle Survey We recently undertook a survey on the type, make and colour of vehicle that our members within the taxi, hire car and limousine industry prefer and had quite a resounding response. Here are the results.

Top 5 vehicles that would be purchased for use in this industry.

1. Toyota

41%

2. Lexus

3. Hyundai 4. Holden 5. Ford

10% 2% 1% 1%

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

Colour of vehicle

Fuel type preference

For the material of the interior, leather won hands down with 72%.

42% said they would pay between $25,000 - $40,000 for a new vehicle, if they bought one today and 25% said they would spend $55,000 - $70,000.

It was very close between white (35%) and black (33%) for the most preferred colour. Silver came third (16%).

Interesting to note that nearly 40% of the respondents indicated that they would purchase a Hybrid (petrol/electric) for their next car.

In summary the most likely vehicle to be purchased for use in the taxi and hire car industry is a white or black Toyota hybrid sedan with leather interior at a cost between $25,000 - $70,000.

What's your next vehicle going to be?

Operators' Forum Hygiene Practices Topics include: - Hygiene Safety Products - Cleaning Etiquette - State Requirements - Legal Consequences

Friday 4 December 10am - 12noon via Zoom

Register your interest in attending by sending an email to toni.peters@taa-national.com.au.

A zoom link will be sent to you 2 days prior to the event.

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ September 2020

7

COVID-SAFE AND COVID-SMART

NSW News

QR codes rolled out Taxis continue to help healthy people stay healthy in NSW The NSW Taxi Council has been working with Service NSW and the Point to Point Transport Commission on a QR code solution for the NSW Taxi Industry. We are delighted to see two of the NSW Taxi Council member networks — Legion Cabs and Premier Cabs lead with a trial involving QR codes in Taxis to help with contact tracing.

Following on from the QR code

trial with Premier Cabs and Legion Cabs, this initiative is now being rolled out to all member networks of the NSW Taxi Council over the coming weeks.

The NSW Minister for Customer Services — The Hon. Victor Dominello, MP, said, "I commend the Taxi industry for its leadership and putting the safety of drivers

The Hon. Victor Dominello, MP, NSW Minister for Customer Services

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DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

and passengers first. Taxis have a large footprint across the State and the collaboration between the NSW Government and the NSW Taxi Council will give the community peace of mind that their safety is being prioritised."

the QR code stickers active in Taxis.

COVID-smart

The check in by passengers is highly recommended for passengers every time they hop into a Taxi in NSW. Also, the data collected by the Service NSW app is deleted in 28 days.

"This is a great example of being COVID-smart as well as COVIDsafe. The Service NSW check-in app is a powerful technology and any industry that is serious about safety should be using it," continued Mr Dominello.

Representatives of the trial recently met with Minister Dominello at NSW Parliament to demonstrate

The QR code technology has been adapted for enabling effective and efficient contact tracing specifically for Taxis providing Rank and Hail services in NSW.

The Point to Point Transport Commission, while explaining the process and utility of QR codes in Taxis, states that, "Passengers are asked to scan the QR Code on the sticker or seat card with

their mobile phone to checkin to the Service NSW app and provide their contact details before commencing, or during their trip."

Furthermore, NSW health encourages commuters to sit in the back and wear a mask.

The Commission further added, "The QR Code check-in keeps a record of the passenger's journey and this data is shared with NSW Health in a case where contact tracing is required".

The use of QR codes in Taxis is voluntary, so if a passenger refuses to scan the QR code during their journey, a driver does not have the right to refuse the fare.

Joining Minister Dominello were Martin Rogers – CEO, NSW Taxi Council; Nick Abrahim – Deputy CEO, NSW Taxi Council; Lee Furlong – Chairman NSW Taxi Council and Assistant General Manager, Legion Cabs; Stuart Palmer – Business Development Director, Transport Network Services (Premier Cabs) and other representatives from Legion and Premier Cabs who have been heavily involved in the trial activation.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

9

NEW SOUTH WALES

QR codes continued from previous page...

The NSW Taxi Council is grateful to the NSW Government for assisting the industry in putting various safety measures in place and ensuring that Taxis in NSW are COVID-safe and with the QR codes now rolled out, also COVID-smart.

The NSW Point to Point Transport Commission along with the NSW Government has established 12 government funded sanitisation stations across Greater Sydney as well as regional NSW where Taxis can get sanitised at no cost.

There is also a privately funded sanitisation station at Sydney Airport, run by GM Cabs.

Taxi drivers have also been given Clean-up Kits to ensure hygiene standards while they are providing services to passengers.

Prevention is better than cure.

The sanitisation stations, the clean up kits, the QR code technology for contact tracing via the Service NSW app and the COVID-safe guidelines working together would ensure

10

that optimum safety measures are in place for not only a COVID-safe Taxi Industry but a COVID-smart one too.

Martin Rogers – CEO, NSW Taxi Council stated that, "We are thankful for the collaborated efforts, co-operation, support and swift response from Minister Dominello, the Point to Point Transport Commission, the NSW Government as well as the Taxi Service Providers and their staff to ensure a COVID-safe Taxi ride for the passengers as well drivers in NSW".

"Taxis are one of the most COVIDsafe forms of transport available for passengers and their loved ones in NSW." "The safety measures in place for Taxis are helping individuals in taking responsibility for the safety and care of themselves and others.

Taxis continue to help Healthy People Stay Healthy in NSW," added Mr Rogers.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

NSW Industry

Stats

VALUES ARE

P2P Compliance Activities for September 2020

UP

235

99

Advisory Visits (involving P2P Commission staff

16

-

Audits of Authorised Service Providers

4

5

(safety standards compliance)

average value as attransfer 31 October average value 2020

providing advice to Authorised Service Providers)

$210,000

$200,000

Hire cars

Vehicle Inspections

Sydney Taxi SydneyLicence Taxi LicencePlates Plates $250,000

Taxis

$180,000

$150,000 $82,400

$100,000

$99,167

$102,500

$95,000

$50,000 $Jan-17

Jan-18

Jan-19

Jan-20

Jun-20

Sep-20

Number of Issued

Passenger Transport (PT)Driver Licences

$60,000

Oct-20

as at 31 October 2020

126,256

All figures contained within these statistics are based on information supplied by rms.nsw.gov.au and pointtopoint.nsw.gov.au

How long COVID-19 can survive

A CSIRO study has revealed how long the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, remains infectious on different surfaces at different temperatures.

Results were obtained under laboratory conditions, with no exposure to UV light and humidity controlled at 50%. *a 10ul droplet of liquid containing SARS-CoV-2 was placed on multiple small test surfaces and left for up to 28 days.

The virus was recovered and placed in tissue culture cells to observe if any infectious virus remained. ** A single well of virus was recovered on days 14 and 21, 99% of the virus was not infectious by day 7.

SOURCE: CSIRO

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ November 2020

11

NEW SOUTH WALES

Overflowingly Professional WATS Train the Trainer The NSW Taxi Council conducted the WATS (Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Services) – Train the Trainer programme for September-October 2020 at the Kingsgrove RSL in Sydney. Nick Abrahim - Deputy CEO, NSW Taxi Council trained previously accredited and new WATS Assessors from its member networks from Regional NSW towns — Milton Ulladulla, Dubbo, Tamworth, Nowra and Cootamundra.

The WATS Assessor Train the Trainer Program has been developed for Service Providers to meet the requirements of the Point to Point Transport Commission WAT Driver Competency Guidelines tool. The

12

program helps previously accredited WATS Assessors undergo a refresher training to help with the training and assessing process through a consistent and up to date system.

The NSW Taxi Council has adopted a robust and thorough COVID-19 policy for any person undertaking this programme or any of its other Training Programs. In relation to the Train the Trainer WATS Assessor Program, it was ensured that COVID safe policies were adopted and social distancing measures were practiced throughout the training.

Where social distancing may be difficult, NSW Taxi Council requires all attendees to wear face masks.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

SANITISATION STATIONS - NSW This is in addition to keeping an attendance record for each person, sanitisation, and cleaning throughout the training, as well as regular cleaning of the training room.

The NSW Taxi Council looks forward to continuing to roll out the WATS Assessor Train the Trainer Program for the remainder of 2020.

To find out more, or to book for the next training session, please contact the NSW Taxi Council on (02) 8339 4644.

MON-FRI

"This Training helps us in raising the standards of the WAT services in Regional NSW to the level of Sydney. It gives us a better understanding of disabiity needs. Challenging but Rewarding.

funded by...

Albury Station Railway Place

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

Alexandria 9-13 O’Riordan Street

Arncliffe 6/13-15 Wollongong Road

Central Coast Taxis 7 Merinee Road, West Gosford

Dubbo Buslines Depot 33 White Street

7am - 7pm

7am - 4pm

NSW gov't

Leumeah Unit 7, No. 4 Grange Road

TESTIMONIAL...

SAT

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

7am - 7pm

GM Cabs

Mascot Sydney Domestic Airport Taxi Holding Bay

Newcastle 4a Metal Pit Drive, Mayfield West

7am - 7pm

8am - 5pm

NSW gov't

North Parramatta 90 Victoria Road

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

Prestons Weld Street

7am - 7pm

8am - 5pm

NSW gov't

Seven Hills

TESTIMONIAL...

23/45 Powers Rd, Business Park

"Overflowingly professional!

Practice makes us perfect and this programme is extremely useful in keeping up to date and producing the best possible methods of training WATS drivers."

7am - 7pm

NSW gov't

St Peters 28-30 Burrows Road

9am - 4pm

Not open

Zevra Taxis

7am - 7pm

8am - 4pm

NSW gov't

Tamworth Buslines 21 Hume Street

Tweed Heads Tweed City Shopping Centre Bus Stop

7:35am - 5:45pm

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

NSW gov't

13

NEW SOUTH WALES

GETTING TO KNOW Leonie Kyriacou

Leonie Kyriacou is an equity partner at Pigott Stinson lawyers where she leads both the commercial law and workplace relations practice groups. Leonie has worked for the taxi industry for over 17 years. She has worked on the full range of legal matters impacting the industry and works for taxi networks throughout NSW, as well as in other States.

Leonie does a lot of volunteer work. She is a member of the Public Gift Giving Board for WIRES and a board member of national charity, Endometriosis Australia. Leonie has two boys aged 8 and 10, and manages their sporting teams. She also volunteers as an ethics teacher for the local primary school.

1. Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?

I love making costumes. In fact, I get a bit obsessed about my childrens’ book week and Halloween costumes. One of my boys is very precise about what he wants to go as, so I have had my work cut out for me.

I’ve made all sorts of wonderful creatures like a blue moon cicada (which is a rare colour morph of a green grocer), a praying mantis, a native stingless honey bee, and most recently a central bearded dragon!

2. If you could be anywhere other than here, right this minute, where would you be?

Cape Tribulation in the Daintree Rainforest.

3. Flashback to when you were 10 years old.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

4. Finish this sentence. On Sunday mornings, you can usually find me...

Sitting at the dining table with my boys (10 and 8) helping them with their homework whilst simultaneously folding the washing. Our Sunday mornings are always the same. I bake something (usually scones), my husband takes our giant rescue wolfhound cross to dog training and I sit with our boys and help them with their homework.

5. How do you think your colleagues would describe you?

Busy.

6. What would be your personal motto?

Help out and be kind.

A ballet dancer.

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DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

DRIVE

Voice of the Australian Commercial Passenger Transport Industry

NOVEMBER 2020 | EDITION 40

Freedom is just around the corner!

PICK UP YOUR OWN COPY EVERY MONTH FROM THESE BUSINESSES ACT

Be Safe.

Help make COVID-19 take a backseat.

National Magazine

Taxis, Hire Cars, Wedding cars, Limousines

Owners, Drivers, Partners, Operators

Suppliers, Networks, Booking Service Providers

Aerial Taxis Canberra Cabs Canberra Elite Taxis

NT Alice Springs Taxis

NSW Alexandria

13cabs, NSW Taxi Council

Bankstown

Mikhael & Co Mech Repairs

Cromer

QLD Albion

Delta Taxi Management Taxicomms

Brisbane Airport

Black & White Cabs

Eagle Farm

Power Auto & Smash Repairs

Helensvale

13cabs Gold Coast

Kelvin Grove

KG Taxi Management

Salisbury

Crown Cabs Occhi's Business Class Taxis

Marcoola

Toowoomba

Maryborough

Virginia

Southport

Wooloongabba

Suncoast Cabs Black & White Cabs Zevra

Manly Warringah Cabs

Granville

Premier Cabs

Dubbo

Dubbo Bus Lines

Black & White Cabs

Kingsgrove

QLD Limo Action Group

Leumeah

13cabs Brisbane

Mascot

St George Cabs Sanitisation Station RSL Cabs, GM Cabs

Newscastle

SA 13cabs - Adelaide Adelaide Ind. Taxis Taxi Council of SA

TAS Casuarina Blue Taxis

Launceston

Taxi Combined Services

WA Victoria Park

Swan Taxis Co-op Ltd

Belmont

Black & White Cabs (WA)

Greenfields

PICK UP YOUR OWN COPY

13cabs

North Parramatta Sanitisation Station

Prestons

13cabs Taxi Tech

St Peters

Zevra Taxi Base

Tamworth

Buslines Depot Sanitisation Station

Mandurah Taxis

Morley

Crown Cabs

Victoria Park

ComfortDelGro (WA)

West Gosford

Central Coast Taxis

Wolli Creek

Legion Cabs

Wollongong

EVERY MONTH FROM THESE BUSINESSES

lllawarra Taxi Network

VIC Ascot Vale Westbourne Motors

Ballarat Taxis Bendigo Taxis Brunswick East Platinum Taxis

Campbellfield Taxi Hire Services

Clayton South Schmidt Electronic Labs

Coburg North Silver North Taxi M'ment

Collingwood Silver Top Taxis

Fitzroy Equity Transport Group

Geelong Taxis Huntingdale Black & White Cabs P2P Transport

Mentone Savid Taxis

Mildura Taxis

Moorabbin Eastmoor Taxis

North Melbourne 13cabs, Alex Taxis, Live Taxi

Oakleigh 13cabs

Port Melbourne Melbourne Star, Oiii, Netcabs

Reservoir Exclusive Cab M'ment

Seaford Frankston Taxis

Shepparton Taxis Thomastown 13cabs, Southern Cross Chauffeurs

Tullamarine All Cars, Crown Cabs Taxi Hire Services

Vermont Autogas West Melbourne Embassy Café

Wodonga Taxis

EVs IN AUSTRALIA

SA becomes the only jurisdiction on the planet to

Disincentivise electric vehicles with tax

16

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

The South Australian Government will seize the dubious honour of becoming the only jurisdiction in the world to actively disincentivise the purchase of electric vehicles through tax if it goes through with measures announced early November by SA Treasurer Rob Lucas.

"While governments around the world are using every means possible to incentivise the uptake of electric vehicles, South Australia reckons they have it all wrong," said Electric Vehicle Council chief executive Behyad Jafari.

"If the revenue from fuel excise is falling because South Australians are burning less foreign oil, that should be considered a blessing."

"Overall it's good for air quality, it's good for the health budget, it's good for carbon emissions, and it's great for economic sovereignty. The last thing any sane government would

do is try to hit the brakes on this trend."

"It's like responding to a drop in the tobacco tax take by slamming a new excise on nicotine gum."

"There's no special bucket of money for roads. Roads need to be paid for from general revenue just like everything else. There is zero need for the SA Government to slap a big new tax on an emerging technology that delivers so much for the community,” added Mr Jafari.

A recent analysis by EY showed that every driver who switches to an electric vehicle delivers a $1370 boost to government coffers, and a $8,763 boost to the Australian economy.

"Treasurer Rob Lucas has described his move as a 'no-brainer' – remarkable then that no other jurisdiction on the planet has come

to his conclusion,” Mr Jafari said.

“Unless every government in the world is missing something obvious that Mr Lucas uniquely understands, the Treasurer may want to reexamine the logic that brought him to this point.

"South Australia can't hit its net zero targets with this kind of policy approach," said Mr Jafari.

"The state is currently at less than one per cent electric vehicle uptake and now its wants to introduce the world's first EV tax."

"There's little point spending $18 million on charging infrastructure if you are actively discouraging people from buying the vehicles that can use it."

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DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

17

Moving

TOWARDS

ZERO Via a

SAFE SYSTEM

Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Safe People

18

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

T

he Joint Select Committee on Road Safety has released its final report on the impact of trauma and death on Australia's roads and the steps that can be taken to reduce road accident rates.

Everyone had the opportunity to contribute to the review and many did. Noting that the Commonwealth has the lead responsibility for implementing legislative and regulatory changes to vehicle standards in Australia, the NSW Government expressed concern that the "timeframes for mandating safety features for vehicles entering Australia's market do not align with the world's best performing countries". It was argued that currently "the process in Australia to mandate critical vehicle safety features is so prolonged that technologies sometimes either become standard in most vehicles or are obsolete by the time regulatory changes are made to mandate them".

The Victorian Government noted that it is encouraged by the work being undertaken by the Commonwealth to accelerate the mandatory introduction of AEB into passenger and light commercial vehicles. However, it argued that "more

Recommendation 1 The committee supports the findings of the NRSS Inquiry Report which recommended that the Australian government commit more funding to road safety.

needs to be done to expedite new safety features that will become compulsory in new cars, trucks, vans and buses in Europe from 2022.

ANCAP, along with the Electric Vehicle Council, outlined a range of new vehicle safety features and technologies which could play a significant role in reducing crashes and resultant injuries.

These included lane assist, conditional speed limits, pedestrian avoidance, vehicle to vehicle and vehicle to infrastructure communication, blind spot monitoring and autonomous emergency braking.

The Electric Vehicle Council argued that educating consumers about the developments in vehicle technology is necessary, and would allow them to make informed decisions when purchasing vehicles.

It was submitted that: Given that approximately 90% of crashes involve some form of human error, education on the driving and safety benefits of electrification and automation is necessary to advance road safety and driving behaviour.

We have printed here the 22 recommendations the committee made after reviewing and analysing all the documentation and presentations tabled.

definitions, relating to casualty crashes, road safety ratings, and speeding across the network. Such data should be published regularly.

The Committee recommends that...

Recommendation 3 ... the Australian Government review its Black Spot Program funding conditions and site eligibility, with a view to making it more effective in proactively detecting and treating deficiencies in road infrastructure.

Recommendation 2 ... the Australian Government work with the states and territories to develop a plan and timeline for the harmonisation of data, including

Recommendation 4 ... the Australian Government increase funding to the Black Spot Program and increase the percentage allocated to regional

The following recommendations were also made.

and remote areas.

Recommendation 5 ... the Australian Government works with states and territories and local government to ensure that all existing road safety programs are designed to implement Safe System principles across all government policy areas, including health and education.

Recommendation 6 ... the commonwealth works with states and territories to ensure that funding avenues are identified that specifically support local councils to attract and retain the relevant

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ November 2020

19

Moving towards zero via a safe system ccntinued from previous page

skills and expertise required for development of all aspects of road safety policy, infrastructure and maintenance.

Recommendation 7 ... the establishment of a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Road Safety.

Recommendation 13 ... the Australian Government, state and territory, and local governments review their procurement practices to ensure that the safety of vehicles is a key criterion in purchasing decisions.

Recommendation 8 ... the Australian Government ensure all Commonwealth funded road projects incorporate Network Design for Road Safety principles.

Recommendation 14 ... the Australian Government review current timeframes for the mandatory introduction of safety features likely to have the greatest impact on reducing road trauma in Australia.

Recommendation 9 ... the Australian Government work with state, territory and local governments to collect accurate data on the current condition and rate of change of Australian roads.

Recommendation 15 ... the Office of Road Safety assist in the facilitation of research to identify the incidence, frequency and type of driver distraction in crash data.

Recommendation 10 ... Australian Government identify priority roads for dedicated and targeted road funding partnerships with the relevant jurisdictions to improve the star rating performance of road infrastructure for all road users.

Recommendation 11 ... the Australian Government support and fund research into the effectiveness of varying road treatments in a wide range of circumstances, with a view to improving the road safety outcomes of infrastructure investment.

Recommendation 12 ... the Australian Government establish a national consultative committee on motorcycle safety.

20

Recommendation 19 ... the Office of Road Safety liaise with the Transport and Infrastructure Council with a view to conducting further research into the potential benefits to be gained from various emerging driver assistance technologies.

Recommendation 20 ... the Australian Government support future driver education campaigns with an emphasis on the development and demonstration of safe driving attitudes that address the following topics: •

road sharing and pedestrian, motorcycle, bicycle and heavy vehicle awareness;

•

Recommendation 16 ... the Office of Road Safety work with states and territories to expand crash data collection and reporting on the incidence, frequency and type of driver distraction.

safe driving in different environments, with an emphasis on regional and rural roads; and

•

the dangers of distracted driving and the need to remain alert to the driving task.

Recommendation 17 ... the Office of Road Safety works with states and territories to fund community awareness campaigns on the impact of driver distractions on road safety.

Recommendation 21 ... Australian Government review funding for programs that reduce barriers to disadvantaged groups obtaining and retaining driver licences.

Recommendation 18

Recommendation 22 ... the Australian Government work with state and territory governments to introduce compulsory first aid training as a condition of receiving a learner's permit or renewing a driver’s licence.

... the Australian Government continue to work with state and territory governments and police agencies to increase the number of point-to-point speed cameras and mobile phone detection cameras.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

2020 Taxi and Ride-Hailing Digital Conference

SMART PERSONAL RIDES 2-3 December 2020 Online

The Taxi and Ride-hailing Digital Conference is an excellent opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and learn about smart solutions with leading taxi experts from across the world.

The next edition of the Taxi and Ride-Hailing Event will be jointly hosted by UITP and Messe Karlsruhe and is now a fully-digital experience, under the theme ‘Smart Personal Rides’.

Learn the latest developments in taxi revolution at this upcoming event.

As the only event of its kind to bring the taxi and ride-hailing sectors together to consider the future, you can hear from international speakers across two days’ worth of sessions as they discuss the latest developments in the taxi and app revolution.

For more information visit www.uitp.org/events

(UITP) The International Association of Public Transport works to enhance quality of life and economic well-being by supporting and promoting sustainable transport in urban areas worldwide. As a passionate champion of sustainable urban mobility, UITP is internationally recognised for its work to advance the development of this critical policy agenda.

With more than 1800 members in 100 countries, UITP has a long history to its name, and is the only worldwide network to bring together all public transport stakeholders and all sustainable transport modes.

Victoria News

MELBOURNE BUSINESSES' INCENTIVE

‘Let’s Melbourne Again’ is an initiative designed for Melbourne, by Melburnians, to reinvigorate the city and support its economic recovery from the pandemic.

Businesses supporting ‘Let’s Melbourne Again’ will each be unveiling a series of initiatives over the coming weeks designed to bring joy to Melburnians and encourage the community to get out of their homes, back into the city, and to help Melbourne get back on its feet.

‘Let’s Melbourne Again’ spokesperson, Jim Gall, said, "We’ve all seen firsthand the impacts of COVID-19 on our community and on the businesses and institutions that make Melbourne the incredible city it is. Through Let’s Melbourne Again we’re aiming to inspire, influence and most importantly, restore hope as well as support the economic recovery of our great city."

"Over the coming weeks and months, the businesses supporting Let’s Melbourne Again will be creating brilliant acts and experiences

22

designed to spark joy and support the city’s economy — stay tuned for the announcements of those initiatives and for further information about how Melburnians can participate.”

Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp says more than 150 events that would normally happen from March through August were cancelled.

But now there's planning behind the scenes to allow major sporting events, including the Boxing Day Test cricket match, Australian Open tennis tournament and Grand Prix Formula 1 car race, to take place over summer and next year.

"For the Boxing Day Test, we would expect to have 70,000 people each day, but it's anticipated, and being planned for 20,000 people to attend that event," Ms Capp said.

"With the Australian Open, normally 800,000 people [attend] over the course of the tournament. Moving forward, the scenario planning is to welcome about 200,000 people."

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

It’s been a crazy year for us all and it’s no wonder Federation Square is flipping dining on its head and turning inside out!

Fed Square is now open. Reconnect with your muchloved city in the heart of Melbourne and enjoy a colourful outdoor dining experience that’s never been done before in the square.

We’re talking extra (ample) seating, roomy outdoor comfort zones, live bands on-stage, roving entertainers (yeah, those guys!) and some seriously good food and drink options from long-time favourites each offering a uniquely Melbourne experience that we’ve all missed so dearly, along with the views to match!

PLUS WE’RE HOSTING TWO INCREDIBLE OUTDOOR ACTIVATIONS FOR YOU TO EXPLORE.

SKY CASTLE BY ENESS A kaleidoscopic fever dream – the Sky Castle, a creative partnership between Fed Square and ENESS, is breezing into Fed Square to celebrate blue skies ahead and it launches on Sunday 14 November.

THE GREENHOUSE BY JOOST Greenhouse by Joost has been quietly making its roots in Fed Square since July.

This November, celeb foodies Matt Stone and Jo Barrett are about to go off the grid and are moving in for a 100% sustainable, home-grown-food-producing six month stint.

VICTORIA NEWS

What does

CPVV HAVE PLANNED for the

FUTURE?

P

rior to this pandemic, the taxi and hire car industry had already been knocked down. COVID-19 was ultimately the nail in the coffin for individuals and families within the industry already struggling to survive. I need to point out again that there has been a major lack in economic support from the government for non-employing sole traders, whose livelihoods now depend on an effective recovery plan.

Late last month, I stood in Parliament to ask Minister Pulford, representative of the Minister of Transport, Ben Caroll, what the regulator, Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria (CPVV), was planning to do to ensure the taxi and hire car industry could move forward as Victorians come out of lockdown.

Rod Barton MLC Leader, Transport Matters Party

Currently there is no news on any plan for the re-launch of the industry from CPVV, which, to remind ourselves, has a statutory responsibility for the 110,000 taxi and hire car drivers in Victoria.

I continue to urgently seek answers regarding any kind of roadmap and the role CPVV will play in the recovery of the taxi and hire car industry.

Model Litigant As many would know, I fight for fairness.

To shed light on the legal matter being pursued by the association Victorian Taxi and Hire-Car Families (VTHF) against CPVV, the VTHF represents and supports hundreds of ex taxi and hire car licence owners who suffered a significant loss in income and value of their taxi and hire car licences, due to the unlawful operation of rideshare prior to the 2017 industry reforms.

24

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ November 2020

The reforms in 2017 resulted in revocation of all licences for a fraction of their worth through a transition assistance scheme, which provided arbitrary monetary payments for only some licences, not all.

Now, this is unjust. And there are claims that the CPVV hadn’t done its job in practicing its expected obligations in monitoring and enforcing licencing requirements.

VTHF has requested that CPVV supply documentation which may assist in it making a decision as to whether to initiate proceedings for the damages sustained.

As a freedom of information request, this matter should have easily been resolved, yet CPVV has tied this up in court for over three years, fighting tooth and nail against those who simply invested in their future through the lawful purchase of taxi and hire car licences.

What are the documents that have been requested that CPVV wishes to hide?

Why is it fighting so hard?

I have urged Ben Carroll to take a good look at CPVV’s court dealings and ensure that it is acting fairly and in accordance to the model litigant rules, as should be the case!

Workers Screening Bill In the last sitting week of October, I also had the honour to express my favour of the Workers Screening Bill 2020. It may or may not impact the taxi and hire car industry in the future, so it’s important that the industry understands it.

This bill will deliver critical improvements to the current Working With Children Check (WWCC) and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

nationally agreed approach and improve the standard that applies to those who work with children.

Disability support workers would be able to work across Australia, and this in turn would assist people with disability in having access to all the services they need to thrive in society.

With COVID-19 present, it is especially vital we focus on protecting the most vulnerable in our community and our young people. The Workers Screening Bill is focused on doing just that, which is why I support it.

We have worked hard to keep multipurpose taxi drivers on the road during the pandemic, to provide essential services to the elderly and people with disability, and we must strive to keep doing more for an allround inclusive Victoria.

Until next month, stay safe and stay well.

It would streamline processes, align our NDIS check with the

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

Rod Barton MP Leader, Transport Matters Party

25

VICTORIA NEWS

NEW Vehicle

CLEANING REGULATIONS will be enforced As of 18 November 2020 the following NEW regulations will be in place.

Failure to meet these regulations attracts a 20 penalty points fine, which today equals $3300.

CLEANING RECORDS BSPs and independent drivers/operators, need to keep records of all cleaning activities for a CPV that's been allocated bookings. These records must be kept for 12 months. Full details of information required can be found on the CPVV website under FAQs.

BSPS MUST support drivers when driving a CPV by: •

Providing drivers with hand sanitisers and cleaning products where possible

•

Auditing a driver’s cleaning activities and records

•

Providing training and resources to drivers on cleaning requirements and methods

•

Providing training and education on the new cleaning regulations which take effect from 18 November 2020.

SPECIFICALLY BSPS MUST provide information or instruction to drivers about:

26

•

Wearing gloves and face masks when cleaning a CPV

•

The type of approved disinfectants and approved hand sanitisers to use

•

Safely disposing of used cleaning products, gloves and masks

•

How to clean a CPV efficiently and effectively.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

DRIVERS MUST...

•

Wear a face mask at all times

•

Make approved hand sanitisers available to passengers

•

Before the first CPV trip of the day - Clean all Driver and Passenger Proximate surfaces of a CPV, with an approved disinfectant

•

After each CPV trip - Clean all surfaces likely to be touched by passengers (including Passenger Proximate surfaces)

•

Between drivers - Clean all surfaces (including Driver Proximate surfaces)

•

At the end of a shift - Clean all surfaces (including Driver Proximate surfaces)

•

PASSENGER PROXIMATE SURFACES

DRIVER PROXIMATE SURFACES

•

•

• •

• • • • • •

any hand held payment device; centre console; external and internal door handles, including the boot handle; heat and air conditioner controls; seat belt clips; visors; wheelchair hoists (if applicable); wheelchair restraints (if applicable); windows, window controls and window handles.

APPROVED DISINFECTANTS

After private use of a CPV Clean all surfaces

are those that have antibacterial or anti-viral properties.

BSPs must take reasonable steps to make sure that drivers they allocate bookings to, comply with the cleaning regulations.

APPROVED HAND SANITISER must have a minimum of 60% alcohol.

• •

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • •

any hand held payment device; centre console; external and internal door handles, including the boot handle; gear stick; glove box; handbrake; heat and air conditioner controls; navigation and radio controls; radio mouthpiece; rear view mirror; seat belt clips; steering wheel, including any buttons on the steering wheel; transmission control; visors; wheelchair hoists (if applicable); wheelchair restraints (if applicable); windows, window controls and window handles.

HIRE CAR BUSINESS ONLINE DIRECTORY Get listed for FREE! Here are the steps: 1. Anyone can join – just email through your details.

2. Check if your business is listed; if it is and you need anything updated, advise us via email.

3. If it's not listed, send your details asap.

4. Get ready for the surge of business now that the country is getting back to a Covid normal.

For contact details, go to www.backseatdriver.online.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

27

OUR MINDS

Take time to run a

THOUGHT

experiment

by Bill Faeth

When he was 16, Albert Einstein mused over what would happen if he could observe light by running as fast as it. He knew this was beyond the scope of his body.

But imagine how this scenario would lay the foundations for what became the special theory of relativity, a decade later.

Nikola Tesla also used his

28

imagination as his laboratory. He devoted hours to planning out his inventions mentally before sketching them.

His mind was the first testing ground for his alternating-current system, which we benefit from every day. Neither he nor Einstein would have achieved their incredible breakthroughs if their

lives had been cluttered with business.

Creativity needs time and space.

That’s why so many modern workplaces are so uncreative.

Most of us are trapped in a cycle of self-propagating work. Every email we send results in another email, which we feel compelled to answer immediately.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

We’re under so much pressure to get results and deliver that there’s little scope for curiosity and exploration. Before we know it, we’ve forgotten that we were once children who loved discovery, who kept asking questions about the world.

But that childlike sense of wonder and openness is essential if you want to find innovative solutions for problems. Luckily, it’s not hard to reconnect with your inner sevenyear-old. All you need to do is run a thought experiment.

Thought experiments offer us the space to consider a specific

question in a parallel world where reality works differently. This frees you from limitations like skills, access to resources, or even – like in Einstein’s case – physical reality.

The point isn’t necessarily to hit on the right answer but to gain insight by forcing yourself out of stale thinking patterns.

Adding unoccupied time into your schedule encourages thought experiments. When your mind is permitted to drift, the areas of your brain responsible for creativity come to life. This is why many authors, like J. K. Rowling, champion boredom. In 1990, before smartphones were

invented, Rowling’s train from Manchester to London was delayed by four hours. The story of Harry Potter emerged in her mind while she was stuck at the station with nothing to do. Imagine what your mind might gift you if you allowed it time to wander.

My challenge to all of you this month is to add a few minutes of unoccupied time into your schedule and let your mind wander.

Most of the time, our minds are the most significant obstacle between us and the goal we want to achieve.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

29

QLD GOLD COAST

Demand Responsive Transport for Gold Coast

Queensland News

by Dominic Cansdale

30

A $2 million trial of the 'public transport version of Uber' on the Gold Coast is a step towards giving outer suburban residents a reliable alternative to cars, says a Griffith University researcher.

110,000 trips, according to a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson.

While destinations are fixed, routes and pick-up times vary depending on who books the service.

Griffith's Cities Research Institute's Benjamin Kaufman said demand responsive transport (DRT), or ondemand transit, provided options for people in outer suburbs who did not have regular bus routes.

While some trials in NSW used small buses, Logan's trial has used 50 regular cabs or maxi-cabs across three separate areas with customers charged between $1.50 and $3.00 per trip.

"For most people, the bus stops aren't very convenient to get to and that means everyone really just wanted to drive their car," he said.

Mr Kaufman said using traditional cabs had been a "good way to test out a service" but that there were "some limitations".

"The on-demand transit services that are planned now, they'll been feeding into … the major train lines or bus stations you might imagine being the backbone of the network."

"There's a lack of visibility, on-demand services already don't have any fixed stops so you lack advertising for a service like that," he said.

Has it worked before?

Mr Kaufman said "you can imagine it [DRT] as a public transport version of Uber" with around 30 trials conducted nationally, including one in Logan.

Logan's DRT trial had been operating for three years and had delivered almost

"If the vehicles aren't branded, then it may be that people in the community don't actually know the services are available."

Car ownership essential to outer suburbs The outer suburbs are the domain of cars, with residents disadvantaged by a lack of public transport.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

"We need to allow them to still go shopping, still gain access to the medical attention they need, and still be members of society."

Mr Kaufman said the Gold Coast trial sites were "well placed" for DRT. "It might take you 10 or 15 minutes to drive to your destination, to catch a bus might take you 45 [minutes]," he said.

Is DRT needed?

Mr Kaufman said emerging

alternatives to traditional public transport were needed to reduce congestion, with an over-reliance on cars putting additional funding pressure on governments to widen or duplicate highways.

"People, for now, have a strong connection to the car because we've put so much into making it the easiest way to get around," he said.

"We've continued pouring millions and millions of dollars into road expansions, which inevitably leads

to more congestion in the future, but it's kind of a stop gap."

Mr Kaufman said governments must "re-evaluate the underlining assumptions" about how transport could change when committing to future infrastructure projects.

"There is definitely going to be increased competition in this market," he said.

"There could be a constriction of operational viability for taxi companies and Uber."

DRIVE A2B magazine ¡ www.drivea2b.com.au ¡ November 2020

31

COMING SOON

Hyundai cars that can WALK just like in Star Wars

by Will Trinkwon

The Hyundai New Horizons Studio, in Silicon Valley, California, will develop products for customers “who have a need for travel in unconventional and off-road terrain”.

Hyundai said that the studio, led by vice president and former head of Hyundai’s Cradle robotics arm Dr. John Suh and autonomous vehicle expert Dr. Ernestine Fu, advances the company’s “vision to shape the future of mobility and onboard forwardthinking, innovative leadership from Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs”.

The studio’s first task is the development of the Hyundai Elevate, a car-cum-walker that was revealed at 2019’s CES. The vehicle is designed to be used by rescue services in emergencies and natural disasters, making use of four moveable legs to traverse terrain inaccessible to traditional off-road vehicles.

Suh said: "Current rescue vehicles can only deliver responders to the edge of the debris field.

They have to go the rest of the way by foot. [The] Elevate can drive to the scene and climb right over flood debris or crumbled concrete.”

At 2019’s CES, Hyundai also hinted that the Elevate could be modified to serve as a city taxi.

Its legs would allow it to walk up steps dropping and collecting passengers directly at their doors, a feature which would help older or disabled passengers.

The Elevate’s legs extend from a modular electric vehicle platform and are capped with independently-powered wheels. Alongside a 15foot track width, these allow the Elevate to move with what Hyundai describes as “mammalian and reptilian” strides.

A separate drive mode sees the legs fold up into traditional wheels and allows the Elevate to reach speeds of up to at least 70mph (112 km/h) while driving like a normal car.

32

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY $22 PER YEAR

We all know just how important the transport industry is in our daily lives – especially for the young, old and vulnerable who rely on it, and for those who work in the networks.

It is clear there is still much to be done to ensure the industry has a more positive, efficient and sustainable environment.

Transport Matters Party’s Leader Rod Barton MP, Executive Board, staff and volunteers have been active during the last 18 months doing just that – improving the industry.

In fact, the latest success we’ve seen is the COVID-19 financial support package for the CPV industry, thanks to Mr. Barton’s recommendations on the panel being approved.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Transport Matters Party in the past – we would not be where we are without you.

To retain our registration as a political party with the Victorian Electoral Commission we are required to demonstrate an ongoing member base.

Be part of a movement that matters.... www.transportmatters.org.au/join

We ask that you please consider renewing or joining today for a fee of only $22 per year.

UBER MUST HANDOVER in-house legal team's emails The Maurice Blackburn class action against Uber Technologies (Uber) was instigated by Rod Barton MP and Transport Alliance Director, André Baruch on behalf of Melbourne, Sydney and Perth taxi and hire car licence owners.

There is also a lawsuit filed against Uber by the Sydney based company behind ride-booking platform GoCatch, Taxi Apps.

Both the class action and lawsuit have accused Uber of conspiring to illegally operate UberX in NSW, Queensland and Western Australia since April 2014, and in Victoria since it was regulated in 2017.

Taxi Apps also claims that Uber’s alleged illegal operation gave it an unfair advantage when it first appeared in the market, and that it attempted to damage GoCatch by

34

using a spy software called Surfcam to steal its data and drivers. Taxi Apps is seeking compensation for damages and loss to GoCatch as well as GoCar, its own car service, a direct competitor to UberX. Uber has denied these allegations, insisting Taxi Apps’ revenues were already dropping before UberX came into the market and any other financial loss was caused by changes in legislation.

The lead plaintiff of the class action and lawsuit, Nicos Andrianakis and Taxi Apps respectively, wanted discovery (the court process of providing the other side documents relevant to the case) from Uber illustrating the strategy it created and actioned to establish itself in Australia and demonstrating how lawful or unlawful its actions have been.

In a hearing on Wednesday 4 November in the Victoria Supreme Court, Andrianakis' barrister Melanie Szydzik of Maurice Blackburn, voiced that these documents were crucial, as they would hugely support the allegations brought in the class action proceedings.

Taxi Apps barrister Tony Bannon of Corrs Chambers Westgarth, pointed out that there was no question lawyers played a considerable part in deciding Uber’s strategy and the four members of the in-house legal team were holding documents that would be significant in this case.

Uber lost its bid to keep its legal team from handing over documents as Justice Cameron Macaulay ordered the email accounts of Uber’s four senior lawyers be searched, with relevant documents to go to Andrianakis and Taxi Apps.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

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35

ON-LINE MUSIC

Hamer Hall is lighting up with

Melbourne Ensemble

Photo: Theo Moustakas

MDCH collaboration Arts Centre Melbourne is partnering with Melbourne Digital Concert Hall for MDCH's Hamer Hall Series – presenting two days of world class performances on November 25-26.

Four concerts over two days will be broadcast live from the iconic Hamer Hall, featuring a stellar lineup that includes Ensemble Liaison, the Melbourne Ensemble with MSO Concertmaster Dale Barltrop, violinist Wilma Smith and Friends, plus MSO Concertmaster Sophie Rowell and pianist Kristian Chong.

“It’s an incredible feeling to welcome musicians back to our Hamer Hall

36

stage made even more poignant as we mark 38 years since this magnificent venue opened. This collaboration with Melbourne Digital Concert Hall will provide inspiration to our state and sector as we take each considered step towards reopening,” said Arts Centre Melbourne CEO, Claire Spencer AM. “We’re thrilled to support Melbourne Digital Concert Hall who have assembled a world class line-up and we hope the reintroduction of events like this will be a pre-cursor for many more to come,” added Spencer.

The MDCH Hamer Hall Series will be streamed live across four onehour concerts on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 November 2020 — 7pm and 8:30pm.

“The MDCH Hamer Hall Series is going to be four very special concerts,” said Melbourne Digital Concert Hall’s Co-Director Chris Howlett.

Four-concert passes are $85, of which $80 goes straight to the artists and a $5 booking fee helps cover transaction and streaming costs. Single tickets are $24, including a $4 booking fee.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

OVERSEAS

news

RANK DEAL: Taxi drivers must wear face coverings at ALL TIMES

by Perry Richardson | www.taxi-point.co.uk

London’s taxi and private hire drivers should wear face coverings AT ALL TIMES or face ‘licensing action’ if they fail to comply, confirms the capital’s regulator.

The UK’s biggest taxi and private hire authority, Transport for London (TfL), sent out a notice to drivers on Friday 25 September stating that they were ‘expected’ to wear face coverings whilst working. Drivers found not to be complying were to face ‘licensing action’.

TfL has since confirmed that drivers must wear face coverings even when no passengers are travelling in the vehicle or when a taxi is waiting for a fare on a cab rank.

The threat of licensing action comes despite the Department for Transport (DfT) confirming that like all transport workers, taxi drivers are not legally required to wear a face covering while in their workplace. The DfT did however strongly advise drivers to wear face masks where possible.

Graham Robinson, TfL Taxi and Private Hire General Manager, wrote in September: “The aim is to achieve high rates of compliance with wearing face coverings, rather than high rates of enforcement.

“We are pleased that the majority of drivers are already complying with these clear instructions and Compliance Officers will continue to engage with both drivers and passengers.

38

“However, if a driver fails to comply, without a valid exemption, it may result in licensing action.”

The threat of licensing action goes against the decision taken by another major UK city. Liverpool City Council confirmed that taxi drivers remain exempt from the legal requirement after growing confusion within the industry.

Liverpool City Council (LCC) Licensing Manager, Kevin Johnson, said: “For the avoidance of doubt this legal requirement does not apply to the driver of the Hackney Carriage or Private Hire Vehicle - the current Government Guidance is that face covering should be worn by drivers but this is advisory only and not a legal requirement.”

LCC Licensing were also quick to release a statement stating that drivers will not be liable of an offence should they carry a passenger not wearing a face mask.

For passengers the use of face coverings is now mandatory. Relevant exemptions will continue to apply for those with health, disability or other reasons in line with the current face coverings on public transport regulations.

The penalty for passengers failing to wear a face covering will be £200 for a first offence, doubling each time to a maximum fine of £6,400. This is in line with penalties for breaking the rule of six.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

Caught on camera – 10,000 tailgaters spotted in just two weeks Almost 10,000 vehicles were caught tailgating in the first two weeks of new cameras being tested to clamp down on the offence.

Safety Jeremy Philips said, "These new cameras have, sadly, highlighted just how many people are driving too close on our roads".

Highways England and police have joined forces to tackle the offence which is a factor in around one in eight casualties on England’s motorways and major A roads.

"We understand that most tailgating is unintentional by drivers who are simply unaware they are dangerously invading someone else’s space. But not leaving enough space between you and the vehicle in front can be very frightening and intimidating – it could also prove fatal."

Soon, motorists caught tailgating can expect to receive letters advising them they were too close to another vehicle and highlighting the dangers of not leaving safe braking distances.

The clear message – stay safe, stay back!­– comes as new footage shows the reality of tailgating.

Highways England’s Head of Road

"We are trialling the new cameras to make drivers aware of their behaviour and encourage better driving. We are also using the Space Invader video game character as a quick reminder to drivers of the risks of tailgating."

Our message is simple – Don’t be a Space Invader, Stay safe, stay back.

A survey for Highways England found that while more than a quarter of drivers admitted to tailgating, nearly nine in 10 people said they have either been tailgated or seen it.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said, "When people think of the causes of road accidents, tailgating probably isn’t one of them, but it’s one that can have dangerous repercussions.

Highways England’s innovative plans are already showing how serious and reckless this behaviour is, and through this campaign I hope we see tailgating drop, making our roads, already some of the safest in the world, safer still."

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

39

WANT WORK? WANT A DRIVER? DRIVER JOBS CANBERRA

QUEENSLAND

CANBERRA ELITE TAXIS

SUNCOAST CAB DRIVERS

Due to increased demand Canberra Elite Taxis is seeking more drivers for Canberra’s biggest and most experienced taxi fleet.

Day, night and weekend shifts available. If you don’t already have a valid ACT “T” condition on your licence we can help you through the process quickly and efficiently. For more information please email feedback@aerialcg.com or call our Office on (02) 6126 1500.

WANTED URGENTLY - MAXI WEEKEND DRIVERS

OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS AS A TAXI OPERATOR Are you a taxi driver looking to become your own boss and work for yourself? If you are, talk to us about leasing a taxi plate and working with Canberra’s biggest taxi fleet. We will help you through the process of becoming an accredited taxi operator and starting out in your own business. Contact fleet@aerialcg.com or call our Office (02) 6126 1500.

NEW SOUTH WALES DRIVERS WANTED - WOLLONGONG LOOKING FOR A CAREER CHANGE?

Covering from Noosa to Caloundra & Hinterland. Main duty is passenger pick up & drop off. Suncoast Cabs service 250+ account clients which may involve delivery of items. Experience is gained on the job. A 3-day training session is mandatory. Call Glenn 0438 517 500.

Over the last 6 weeks, we have had very few maxi vehicles out during the Weekend days and this has put a huge strain on the guys who are out there. If you can help out contact Kel at Suncoast Cabs on (07) 5441 8888.

DAY AND NIGHT DRIVERS - BUNDABERG Must have held an Australian Driver's Licence for 3 years minimum. Must be able to pass a medical test, a 5 year criminal and Licence check. Must be able to acquire an Authorised Licence. Full time/part time Commission - good rates - training provided. Day and night shifts available. Email your resume to jrider3710@gmail.com or text/call - 0421 761 805 for more details.

This could be an opportunity for you to join the team at the Illawarra Taxi Network. Become your own boss, working flexible hours, full time, part time or casual. Full training and assistance with your application is available. Must have a full NSW Driver's Licence for 12 months. Call (02) 4254 2120 or email john.megas@illawarrataxinetwork.com.au for details.

BRISBANE CROWN CABS

TAXI DRIVER - WILEY PARK

CROWN CABS

13cabs Toyota Camry Hybrid. Taxi has full comp insurance, leather seats, rubber mats and weather-shield. Very well maintained. Change over in Wiley Park, Punchbowl, Lakemba or Belmore. Day/Night/Weekend/Semi/weekly. Full time, part time or casual. Immediate Start. Reasonable pay in. Drive for us regularly for 6 months, we service your private car for FREE. Text or call 0418 612 692.

TAXI DRIVER - BALLINA TAXIS Pick your own shifts, on the job training provided for suitable applicants. Email: ballinataxis@bigpond.com - send your resume and contact details. For more info call 0419 862 290.

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www.crowncabs.com.au

All shifts available - 7 days per week. Please phone Tuna Guclu - 0419 484 666.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Drivers wanted full time or part time in Morley and Perth.

Contact Tuna Guclu on 0419 484 666.

PERTH DRIVER - BLACK & WHITE CABS Day Shifts (5-7 days). Please call Georgina on (08) 9230 0400.

MANDURAH TAXIS DRIVERS All shifts available, especially nights, weekends and wheelchair bus drivers. Flexible hours - work to suit your lifestyle. Good income and all training provided free.

Call (08) 9581 8999.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

owners, operators & drivers ADVERTISE HERE FREE Send details (word limit=70) of your DRIVER or JOB advertisement to contact@drivea2b.com.au or sms 0400 137 866 and we will print your advert here for 3 months.

SILVER TOP TAXI DRIVERS

VICTORIA CROWN CABS DRIVERS WANTED Shepparton - Ballarat - Mansfield - Sunbury - Wallan Kilmore. Day and night shifts. Phone (03) 9310 5422.

DRIVERS - BAYSIDE TAXI SERVICE Sick of driving an old Ford? CHEAP is EXPENSIVE. Great set price deals with our 50 series hybrids on lpg. Bayside Taxi Service, 313 Bay Road, Cheltenham. For more info call (03) 9555 1155 or 0414 566 779.

LOOKING FOR A TREECHANGE? Do you want to get out of the rat race?

Less stress? Less traffic? Cheaper living? Why not drive a taxi in Wodonga? We have permanent day shift, night shift, sedans and WAT vehicles. Great takings and easier driving! Contact Wodonga Taxis on 02 6024 3839.

MELTON DRIVERS REQUIRED Night/Day/Weekend shifts are available. Ring Zafar on 0425 844 884.

Has to be over 25 years old. At least 3 years experience.

East Doncaster changeover. Call or SMS Tony on 0413 393 594 or email tonysursock@gmail.com.

TAXI DRIVING OPPORTUNITIES Want to try regional living?

Wodonga Taxis on the Victoria/NSW border have weekly and weekend shifts available. To find out more please contact Scott Cowie on 0412 691 371.

NORTHERN TERRITORY TAXI/MINIBUS DRIVER - PALMERSTON CITY Immediate vacancy is available for a Minibus Taxi Driver. Daytime/weekends shifts available. NT Driver's Licence with 'H' endorsement is enough to start the job. If not, we can help you get the 'H' endorsement.

Great income with flexible work hours. Please contact Gihan on 0469 828 307.

JOIN TAA OR RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP! Valid from Now for 12 Months

ONLY $120 YEARLY (Individual Membership Price)

Yearly and half-yearly payment options available!

Transport Alliance Australia is a peak body for owners, drivers, operators and stakeholders of the Australian commercial passenger transport sector.

TAA is a non-profit body run by members, for members. Become part of an industry group working for a better industry. www.taa-national.com.au • info@taa-national.com.au

TAA advocates for the betterment of the Australian personal passenger transport sector.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

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Only $35 for 50 words Payment details are listed on page 2

ADVERTISE HERE! • • • • • • • •

meters for sale and installation cars for sale & for lease businesses for sale taxi camera service security cameras mobile phones bluetooth speakers vehicle repairs

Basically anything that can be used with, in or for a taxi, hire car, limousine.

SEEKING Taxi Equipment Installer Port Melbourne,Victoria

G5 Taximeters – rent or buy Fed up with paying depot fees? Then go “independent” with a low-cost Taxi Camera and G5 Taximeter. Save thousands of dollars every year!

Professional installation services for roof lights, racks, EFTPOS etc. Call 0421 046 015 or visit our website www.schmidt.com.au

Looking for a Treechange?

Do you want to get out of the rat race?

Less stress? Less traffic? Cheaper living? Why not drive a taxi in Wodonga? We have permanent, day shift, night shift, sedans and WAT vehicles. Great takings and easier driving! Contact Wodonga Taxis on 02 6024 3839.

Business Opportunity

Netcabs Oiii - a taxi network & technology company, are looking for a reliable person with experience with vehicle electrical systems, wire splicing, soldering & basic computer knowledge. Flexible hours & good hourly rate. All tools & equipment are supplied. Australian citizenship or perm residency is preferable. Email to dennis@netcabs.com.au.

We are expanding in Brisbane. If you have assignments to lease we will pay $100. Call into our office in Salisbury and ask for Tuna Guclu or call 0419 484 666 to discuss price and terms.

Leases Wanted - Brisbane

• •

We are expanding in Brisbane. If you have assignments to lease we will pay $100. Call into our office in Salisbury and ask for Tuna Guclu or call 0419 484 666 to discuss price and terms.

• •

Business For Sale

For more info visit www.taxiservices.com.au or call 0434 423 423.

Once in a Lifetime …

Incredible business opportunity in the Whitsundays due to owner's retirement. Est. Wedding Limousines, with work til October 2021. Location is idyllic, lifestyle is unbelievable and best of all … the price is right. Call 0408 425 431.

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Taxi Cameras - Low Cost

Approved CPV Taxi Security Camera

•

Compliant in VIC – NSW – ACT Compliant Taxi Braille / Tactile Numbering and CCTV Stickers CabCharge Approved Installer STOP paying Monthly Fees – GO Independent in 4 Easy Steps!

Master Mechanic 30 YEARS Qualified Automotive Mechanic / Technician

Business Opportunity Lease or buy a share in Wodonga Taxis. Great takings and great return on investment in Wodonga's Premier Taxi Company. Call Scott on 0412 691 371 for details.

DRIVE A2B magazine · www.drivea2b.com.au · November 2020

Our New Website has launched!

Featuring relevant COVID-19 information for the industry and NEW Ad Directory, Classifieds and Drivers Wanted pages.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Now, advertisers get more value for their money, being advertised on our website and via Facebook & Instagram at no extra cost:

For any advertising enquiries, email contact@drivea2b.com.au or SMS/call 0400 137 866.

Advertisers’ Directory

AMS Ivanhoe Lawyers.................. 25

Melway............................................ 29

AVA Group...................................... 35

Schmidt Elec. Labs........................ 35

Back Seat Driver............................. 27

Stop the Spread............................. 31

DRIVEA2B website........................ 43

Toyota.............................................. 44

DRVR Training................................ 35

Transport Alliance Australia.... 35, 41

Embassy Cafe................................ 17

Transport Matters Party............... 33

Fed Square ..................................... 23

UITP.................................................. 21

Health Direct................................... 37

LEAD THE DRIVE FOR YOUR BUSINESS Think Hybrid. Think Toyota.

Corolla Sedan SX Hybrid, RAV4 Cruiser Hybrid and Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid shown

The age of hybrid has come.

More businesses than ever are choosing our electrified vehicle ranges for their fleet. It’s making an impact on emission reductions, creating a brighter outlook for the world while making perfect business sense. Australian businesses are already saving thousands across the year, benefiting from the impressive fuel efficiency and irresistible drive of hybrid vehicles.

Ready to re-energise your fleet and take your driving experience to the next level?

To find out more, visit your Toyota Fleet Dealer or call 1800 444 847

toyota.com.au/hybrid

*Excluding Special Edition Models

T2020-015427 DRIVE A2B 09/20