| Regional taxi operators say their plates are worth thousands more than the state government is offering in compensation, as part of moves to fully deregulate the industry.
Lismore taxi operators are being offered $55,000, while those in Casino are set to receive $25,000 per licence.
The $130,000 maximum only applies to four zones: Tweed Heads, Ballina, Coffs Harbour/Sawtell and Port Macquarie.
Lismore Taxi Co-operative president Justin Stevenson said the state government’s offer was an insult that would leave many operators broke.
“What the government is proposing … is to take our plates back and pay us about a fifth of what they are worth,” he said.
“I paid $240,000 for my plate and they are offering me $55,000.”
Mr Stevenson said many owners borrowed or invested an average of $250,000 for their plates, thinking it would be a superannuation nest egg.
Second-generation Taxi owner and driver Ashley Clark Smith has 13 plates in Casino, but is only operating seven vehicles.
Mr Clark Smith said he borrowed more than a million dollars to set up his business in 2014 and would be left with a huge debt if he accepted the government’s current offer.
“It is like the government wants your house, but will not pay you the market value for it,” he said.
“They offer a small amount of money for your asset and then say rent it back off me and be grateful.” |