THE Victorian taxi regulator is investigating a taxi driver after an incident involving a Mt Beauty war veteran.
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Joshua New, who has post traumatic stress disorder after serving three tours in Afghanistan, was refused a taxi fare in Melbourne due his assistance dog.
His friend, who serves in the army and also has PTSD, filmed the incident.
Taxi Services Commission chief executive Aaron de Rozario confirmed the commission was investigating.
“Refusing to carry a passenger because they are travelling with an assistance animal is unacceptable,” he said.
“The driver risks a fine of up to $400 for refusing to carry an assistance animal and other fines may also apply.”
Mr de Rozario said drivers had to understand the law.
“The Taxi Services Commission is continuously working with, and supporting industry, by rolling out education programs to ensure drivers understand their responsibilities in carrying passengers with assistance animals,” he said.
“Assistance animals come in all shapes and sizes so it’s important that drivers understand how to identify and talk to passengers about their assistance animal.”
