There when you need them, Tamworth taxi services remain on the streets, helping social distancing and keeping people in supply of essentials.
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Owner of Tamworth Taxis Chris Doulis said they had seen a large drop in business, and had to make the tough decision to let four drivers go and take one of their taxis off the road.
"We do mainly groceries, takeaways, doing the Red Rooster home deliveries which is keeping us afloat, so thanks to them, we are probably doing a fair bit better than we would have otherwise," Mr Doulis said.
We do mainly groceries, takeaways, doing the Red Rooster home deliveries which is keeping us afloat, so thanks to them, we are probably doing a fair bit better than we would have otherwise.
- Chris Doulis
Keeping up with hygiene, the staff had been implementing full car cleans after each job.
Operations manager for Tamworth Cabs Tristan Rainey said they had several drivers decide it wasn't safe for them to continue despite being classified as an essential service.
He said those drivers had already sought help from government assistance packages like Job Keeper and Job Seeker.
"I believe a couple guys have gone to see centrelink. Because they are small businesses with their own ABN, they've been able to prove a downturn."
As a 24 hour service, the closure of pubs and clubs has left it's mark on business. So branching out into package delivery has been something to keep them going.
"There has been an increase in package delivery and special needs delivery, such as taking people to get tested ... we are supplying the maxi taxis with no extra tariff, and the vinyl seats can easily be wiped down," he explained.
"Getting someone sick would be the last thing we want to see happen.
"We are protecting our drivers, protecting our customers, and protecting the public."
There is always going to be a rotten apple but so far we haven't reached that far down.
- Tristan Rainey
In terms of safety, they both said customers had been treating drivers with respect.
"People have been pretty good. The vast majority have been taking it seriously. There is always going to be a rotten apple but so far we haven't reached that far down," Mr Rainey explained.
"With people able to chose their own drivers both online and over the phone, we make sure everyone is comfortable," Mr Doulis added.
Inquiry commences
With submissions opening soon for the inquiry into Point to Point Transport (Taxis and Hire Vehicles) Act 2016, Mr Rainey has welcomed the focus on the taxi industry.
The Chair of Portfolio Committee Abigail Boyd MLC, said this inquiry is an opportunity to examine the operation of this regulatory framework as it applies to the taxi industry, "which has experienced unprecedented change and disruption over recent years."
The committee will focus on a number of key issues affecting the taxi industry, including the system of bailment, the implementation of the industry assistance package and Passenger Service Levy, the impact of the legislation on the value of taxi plates, and the role and function of the Point to Point Transport Commissioner.
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With one issue for Mr Rainey being the $4000 registration fee for taxis and a normal car fee for ride-share companies, he said while happy to pay the costs, it raises issues of public safety.
"Submissions are due late May. We would like to see reviews certainly, as it hasn't been implemented properly," he said.
"Would you like to see Qantas go back to being unregulated? Cheaper flight costs are one thing, crashes are another."
