Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics
The Northern Territory Government has launched the Respect Your Taxi and Minibus Driver campaign, encouraging Territorians to behave appropriately when using a taxi or minibus service.
The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics developed the Respect Your Taxi and Minibus Driver campaign in consultation with taxi and minibus companies across the Northern Territory to address antisocial passenger behaviour directed at drivers of taxis and minibuses.
Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Executive Director of Transport Safety and Services, Simon Saunders, said the campaign was an important initiative to improve relationships and interactions between passengers and drivers.
“If you behave inappropriately or abusively when using a taxi or minibus, you can be refused transport by the driver and network or have the matter referred to the Police,” said Mr Saunders.
“There are serious penalties for people who assault drivers in the Territory and offenders may face up to seven years imprisonment.
“Taxi and minibus drivers, just like their passengers, deserve to be treated with respect and should feel safe at work and return home to their families without an incident or injury.
“Drivers are just trying to transport you safely, help them do it,” said Mr Saunders.
Imran Nadeem, Manager of Darwin Radio Taxis said “We want to get you home safely. Your driver also wants to get home safely. Respect your driver.”
The campaign will run over the next few months and will focus on getting the message to all passengers including Territory communities.
The integrated campaign features a series of social media videos and posts; radio advertising; outdoor advertising at taxi and minibus ranks; magnets on over 300 vehicles; stickers and air-fresheners for taxi and minibus interiors; posters for pubs, clubs, and community notice boards; and educational material to incorporate into road safety presentations to Territory school students.
