Bolte Bridge protest: Deregulation reform sparks protests, commuters face massive delays

A protestor became sick as hundreds of taxi drivers continue to demonstrate against the new reform of the taxi industry. Following causing a blockage at the Bolte Bridge, protestors moved to Premier Daniel Andrews’ office.

Cab drivers are saying they may have to sell their homes if the new reform concerning the taxi industry is brought into effect. The Victorian government has decided to buy back taxi licenses in an effort to legalise ride sharing service Uber. Through this reform, a single registration will be issued for taxis, hire cars and ride-sharing services.

As part of the change, taxi drivers will be paid $100,000 for their first license and $50,000 for up to three others. License holders are arguing this could bring forth problematic conditions for drivers, with many being forced to pay up to $500,000 per license.

One elderly man, complaining of chest pains, became ill at the protests. Paramedics were called to the scene. The man was transported to the hospital by ambulance.

Protest organiser Linda De Melis said the drivers would lose their homes if the change is implemented. “We're not opposing industry change, the Government can dismantle the industry if they choose, but we as licence-holders should not have to pay the price," Ms De Melis said, speaking with ABC 774. "The Government is seizing our licences for zero in return, and our licences act as assets, people derive income from them, they have loans against them.”

“We are at breaking point, people are losing their homes, and it’s that level of desperation that has driven us to this point today,” she added.

Trams along Elizabeth St, Williams St and Bourke St were affected, causing severe delays, as a result of the protests. From 8 a.m. on Monday, traffic in both directions was brought to an almost standstill.

Resham Sekhon, who has been a cab driver for more than 30 years, said he is looking at a $380,000 debt. He is close to losing his assets as the change comes into effect. “I will have to sell my house, I will be homeless,” he said. “I’m a hard worker. I have worked 20 years without a holiday. I had planned to retire but I’ve got no hope of that now.”

If the deregulation of the taxi industry does happen, license fees will be scrapped. License holders are calling the buyback offer inadequate.

Transport Minister Jacinta Allan denounced the protests, saying they were affecting passengers. “Victoria Police are aware of this and will no doubt make their own decisions about how they respond but the bottom line is this is just reckless and irresponsible behaviour,” she said, speaking with 3AW (via Herald Sun). “It’s only going to hurt passengers.”