- Digital upgrade of Taxi User Subsidy Scheme (TUSS) now underway
- The $8.7 million project will digitise, future-proof and modernise the scheme
- TUSS provides subsidised on-demand transport scheme for people with disability
- System currently relies on a paper-based vouchers
- Project to be completed in late 2024
An $8.7 million project to digitise the State's Taxi User Subsidy Scheme (TUSS) is now underway.
The McGowan Government committed the funding to modernise TUSS for people with disability and improve the journey experience for both passengers and drivers.
The Taxi User Subsidy Scheme (TUSS) administered by the Department of Transport (DoT), entitles eligible people with disability to a subsidy of up to 75 per cent of taxi fares and is currently delivered via a paper-based voucher system.
The TUSS Reform Program will remove the need for paper vouchers and deliver a solution that can be easily adopted by passengers and drivers and enhance the subsidy payment process for taxi drivers and booking services.
Planned improvements include the development of a smartphone app for drivers and booking services, an upgraded participant card and an improved application process.
In the coming weeks the Department of Transport will begin consultation with industry on the reform program, and will also be seeking expressions of interest to participate in the new On-demand Transport Industry Reference Group.
As the project progresses, DoT will invite TUSS participants, the on-demand transport industry and other key stakeholders to participate in various stages of the project. For more information and updates on the TUSS Reform Program, or to get involved, visit the DoT website at https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/tuss.
Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The current Taxi User Subsidy Scheme is outdated, using a paper-based system, and it needs to be upgraded.
"Our Government committed $8.7 million to future-proof and digitise the system, which will better meet the needs of today's customers, taxi drivers and booking services.
"WA currently has around 13,000 active TUSS participants with numbers expected to grow as disability increases in line with our ageing population.
"By taking the scheme into the digital age, we will future-proof our systems so we can keep up with demand and make accessible, equitable transport more user-friendly for both taxi passengers and drivers."
Comments attributed to Disability Services Minister Don Punch:
"For people in our community who rely on taxis for their transport, this announcement will be very welcome news.
"Upgrading the Taxi User Subsidy Scheme not only modernises the system but will provide better peace of mind and ease of use for people with disability and their loved ones.
"The McGowan Government is passionate about improving safety and accessibility for Western Australians with disability."
Transport Minister's office - 6552 5500
Disability Services Minister's office - 6552 6900
