What it does
The Transport Operations (Passenger Transport) Act 1994 (Qld) is the foundation statute for passenger transport regulation in Queensland. It regulates every form of public passenger transport in the state: scheduled bus, coach, and ferry services; rail passenger services; taxis; booked hire services (including rideshare platforms); limousines; school bus services; and special events transport. The Act establishes the planning framework, the licensing and contracting regime, driver screening requirements, safety duties, and the enforcement powers of authorised persons.
The Act pursues multiple purposes simultaneously: ensuring public transport is available, safe, and accessible; maintaining network planning and service consistency; protecting passengers and the public from unsuitable drivers; and creating a competitive and accountable market for personalised transport services. Chapter 6A, inserted in 2024, reflects a growing emphasis on safety duty obligations comparable to those in the national Work Health and Safety framework.