Opposition Leader and Shadow Transport Minister Shane Love has raised concerns WA Labor’s much-touted second tranche of tow truck industry reforms, promised by Rita Saffioti, are yet to see the light of day.
It comes following a violent attack on a man in the eastern Suburbs of Perth on Wednesday, 16 August, who was allegedly stabbed by a tow-truck driver following a verbal altercation.
“The people of Western Australia were promised enhanced consumer protection and measures by the WA Labor Government to combat the violent behaviour plaguing this industry,” Mr Love said.
“Despite WA Labor’s promises made in November 2022, vulnerable motorists are still being charged thousands of dollars for towing and storage, or alternatively, risk being violently attacked.
“Minister Saffioti has now dragged her feet on this issue for months, which has had disastrous consequences for the people of this state. Still, she remains absent.
“Actions need to be taken to protect motorists and the industry operators who are doing the right thing.”
Mr Love has raised this issue on a number of occasions in Parliament. The most recent of which came today during a grievance motion.
The Opposition is demanding answers from the WA Labor Government regarding the delay in delivering their so-called ‘second phase’ of tow truck industry reforms.
“Despite WA Labor’s grand promises, Western Australia has been left in limbo, wondering where the regulations and background checks are.
“The promises of change by WA Labor were loud and clear. But here we are, well past the anticipated timeline, and the vital reforms are nowhere to be seen.
“Rita Saffioti has failed to deliver on her promise to reform the safety of this industry.
“West Australian motorists continue to be exposed to shonky practices at a time when they are very vulnerable, we have even seen people being violently attacked on our roads.
“The lack of action by Rita Saffioti on these reforms is unacceptable, and the WA Labor Government must take immediate steps to rectify the situation. The time for action is now.”
