Shadow Minister for Transport Libby Mettam has hit out at the Labor Government for slugging WA truckies and bus operators with the only licence fee increases in the nation.
Ms Mettam said it put Labor out of step with every other state government in Australia.
“The Liberal Party will stand up for the WA trucking industry and bus operators who have kept the State moving during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Mettam said.
“The WA Liberals understand that behind every truckie and bus driver is a family.
“Increasing fees and charges right now is just cruel and puts even more pressure on WA families who are already struggling to make ends meet, dealing with the highest unemployment in our State’s history and the Labor Government’s $850 cost of living increases.
“Many owner-drivers are faced with a very tough year and are left with no choice but to pass the fee increases on.
“I understand there was no warning of the 2.5% increase and businesses have not been able to factor the costs into contracts and budgets for the coming year.
“Now is not the time to increase fees and charges on small business to boost the Labor Government’s coffers. This could have a devastating impact on rural transporters regarding the size of their fleet, which will impact jobs and other small businesses in regional communities.
“The Labor Government must listen to the industry and put a stop to these unfair increases year after year.”