Bus Safety Week is in full swing.
| The TWU is still pursuing an urgent meeting with Transport for NSW to convene a Bus Industry Workforce Strategy Meeting. The industry can no longer afford to ignore the voice of bus drivers. Incivility and violence towards bus drivers is becoming an increasingly common issue in the industry. Not only does it concern physical safety, but mental health as well. Whilst already at the mercy of timetables and questionable routes, the last thing a bus driver needs or deserves is to be abused by the public. |
Since last week’s e-news, numerous bus drivers have spoken up and shared their experiences with the TWU.
One driver shared that he has been spat on and sworn at – but very recently, was subject to physical violence at the hands of numerous youths. Describing it as his “worst experience as a bus driver”, he was ganged up on by the youths, who proceeded to kick him, and even threaten him with a hammer.
Another driver shared that he had recently been subject to verbal abuse from youths yet again. This time, however, the group had poured a cold milk tea drink all over him – but given the situation, the driver had no other choice but to continue his run to ensure all other passengers got to their destination. The operator in question has done nothing about the issue.
“The recent experiences shared to us by our dedicated bus drivers are absolutely abhorrent. It is disappointing that an increasing number of individuals believe this behaviour is acceptable. Perhaps equally as disappointing, however, is that much of the issue is falling on deaf ears. We continue to call on Transport for NSW to meet with the TWU and convene an urgent Bus Industry Workforce Strategy Meeting. Change needs to be made, and it needs to happen now.”
NATIONAL DRIVER FATIGUE WEEK HAS BEGUN!
| Today is the start of National Driver Fatigue Week. Nationally, fatigue can be attributable to an estimated 20-30 per cent of fatal crashes in Australia, according to the Australasian College of Road Safety. The Minns Labor Government is urging all road users to rest off the road while tired, given that NSW has now recorded a 47 per cent increase in fatigue related road deaths in 2024. Fatigue is considered one of the “big three killers” on NSW roads, alongside speeding and drink / drunk driving. The TWU applauds the Minns Government’s efforts to build road safety initiatives and facilitate awareness and community education. The Minns Government’s investments include, but are not limited to: |
- $1 billion in infrastructure upgrades on regional and metropolitan roads
- $46 million on 2700 kilometres worth of rumble strips to help fight fatigue
- Maintaining 673 signposted rest areas and building a new rest area on the Newell Highway north of Narrabri
- Upgrading rest areas through the $11.9 million statewide Heavy Vehicle Rest Stop Minor Works program
The TWU is particularly enthusiastic about the Minns Government’s investments towards heavy vehicle rest areas. Experiences shared by our members, as well as research conducted by the TWU over the years, reflects the dire need for Government action. The TWU applauds the Minns Government for their efforts and encourages further long-term commitments to improving road safety for all users.
TWU NEWCASTLE
Within the industry, the TWU is known for its relentless action and unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of transport workers and their families. It is said that TWU Officials “live and breathe” the cause, and the same very well applies to those at the Newcastle & Northern Sub-Branch.
Mick Forbes, Newcastle & Northern Sub-Branch Secretary, reflects on recent times and shares his thanks:
“It is such an honour to be TWU Newcastle & Northern Sub-Branch Secretary – particularly being amongst our hard-working Delegates, Officials and TWU Educators. We all act in unity to improve transport workers’ lives.”
RT HEALTH OFFERS EXCLUSIVE TWU OFFER
