Page 2407 - Week 06 - Friday, 27 June 2008

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Ms Gallagher: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:’

1) Twice. The Taxi Subsidy Scheme (TSS) policy was reviewed and the current policy introduced on 30 June 2003 following the separation of the TSS from ACT Health and Community Care. A second operational review was undertaken in 2004.

2) 2003

Prior to July 2003, TSS members could access a subsidy in the form of $2 vouchers with one voucher able to be used for each $5 taxi fare, providing approximately 40% subsidy.

Following the review, TSS members could use vouchers for a 50% subsidy of the metered fare to a maximum subsidy of $17 per trip. Members who use wheelchairs received a 75% subsidy of the metered taxi fare, up to a maximum of $26 per trip.

2004

In July 2004 the TSS was extended to include people under the age of 16 years. The levels of subsidy did not change.

In addition in 2003-04 the TSS was amended to include a lift fee subsidy for members who use wheelchair accessible taxis. The subsidy is paid directly to the Taxi operator.

3) Refer to the answer for Question 2.

4) Taxi fare rates have been reviewed six times since October 2001.

5) Refer to Attachment A.

6) The TSS is a capped concession scheme. The current maximum subsidies ($17 and $26) under the TSS are capped and are not automatically linked to taxi fare increases. The lift fee subsidy is automatically calculated at 25% of the maximum fare for waiting time, which is currently $45 per hour.

7) Refer to the answer for Question 6.

Attachment A

2001-02 taxi fares increased by 5.5% on 1 July 2001 to:

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