TWU WELCOMES BUS SAFETY REFORMS, URGES MORE ACTION

The Transport Workers Union of NSW (TWU) welcomes the Minns Government’s commitment to improve bus safety and ease pressures placed on a workforce strained by rail closures, chronic driver shortages and increasing levels of violence.

Labor will support in-principle the 19 recommendations outlined in the Bus Industry Taskforce’s Final Report and pledged to continue implementing them.

The TWU commends the government’s focus on establishing a regulatory transformation program in response to the report’s safety-based recommendations. This initiative will empower Transport for NSW to enhance bus industry safety by monitoring compliance and implementing necessary reforms.

The union also applauds the NSW Government for its continued engagement with unions and other stakeholders throughout this reform process, demonstrating a genuine commitment to prioritising the needs of workers.

However, more action is urgently needed to support Sydney’s bus drivers who remain the lowest-paid in Australia, while living in one of the nation’s most expensive cities.

The TWU also calls for industry co-regulation of driver training to ensure drivers have a meaningful say in their needs for success, along with Continuous Professional Development programs to support drivers and provide clear career pathways at every stage of their careers.

TWU NSW State Secretary Richard Olsen said it was positive to see the government shows a genuine willingness to listen and take action where it matters most.

“While we welcome the Minns Government’s initial steps towards improving safety and working conditions in the bus industry, the reality is that more needs to be done. The government’s in-principle support for the Bus Industry Taskforce’s recommendations is encouraging, but words alone won’t protect our drivers or improve their conditions.”

“The TWU is equally committed to improving conditions across the bus industry through our Road to Respect campaign. We will continue to fight for the rights and safety of our members, and we remain optimistic that, with the government’s ongoing partnership, we can achieve meaningful and lasting change.”

“We will continue to work with the government to ensure these reforms are fully realised and that bus drivers receive the respect, safety, and support they deserve. This includes advocating for fair pay, robust training programs, and ongoing professional development opportunities that acknowledge the vital role bus drivers play in keeping our communities connected.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Adam Jacobson – 0405 625 208 / adam.jacobson@twunsw.org.au