Around 12 WA regional taxi operators were prepared to go on a three day hunger strike when they took their fight to Parliament hoping to speak with the Premier or Transport Minister last week.
Taxi operators in WA have been pleading for compensation from the state government after companies took a big hit when ride sharing companies started operating in regional WA.
A metro compensation package was introduced by the state government in late 2018 prior to Uber operating in the regions.
In May this year, the minister announced the Regional Taxi Transition Support Package - a $3.4 million package to help existing country taxi-car licence holders and operators transition to a new operating environment.
Busselton Taxis owner Jeff Devenny said the government did not recognise regional operators had out laid a lot of money to provide a service to the community in a highly regulated industry.
"Now the goal posts have not just been moved, but have been totally smashed down, operators in regional areas are suffering and we have already seen some towns lose their taxi service.
"This is not a cash grab by regional taxi operators, it is a call out for assistance to help get through these tough times that have been put upon us with the changes made by the government."
Vasse MLA Libby Mettam raised a grievance in parliament last week to the minister stating regional taxi drivers were frustrated the government was refusing to meet with them and called on the government to listen to their concerns.
"Taxi drivers in regional areas are experiencing significant financial hardship as a result of the McGowan Government's on-demand transport reforms," she said.
"There needs to be support for these operators who are facing significant financial hardship as a result of these reforms which affect the regions in a unique way."
A Department of Transport spokesperson said regional taxis played an important role and the Regional Taxi Transition Support Package would assist the industry while it adjusted to a more open market.
"The Government will continue to investigate ways it can assist regional taxi operators through the transition to the new regulatory environment."
Transport minister Rita Saffioti did not respond to questions in time for publication but it is understood her office has been meeting with taxi drivers to discuss their circumstances.
