The Rockliff Liberal Government is taking action to protect our bus drivers and public transport passengers from aggressive and offensive behaviour.

Phase one of the pilot of transit officers on public transport services is operational from this week.

This increased safety presence on our bus services is highly visible and ensures our public transport system is as safe as possible for commuters and bus drivers.

Deployment will cover general access services in the south, targeting key urban corridors on both metropolitan and regional services and across different operators.

Observations from this deployment will assist the Department of State Growth in informing phase two and the future operational model, including the development of new regulations and protocols to allow for body-worn cameras and expanded powers.

I have also tasked State Growth with the development of a mechanism to enable easier reporting of non-urgent incidents of antisocial behaviour.

The vast of majority of trips on our buses are incident-free, but these actions will bring comfort to our drivers and the majority of passengers who enjoy using public transport.

These initiatives are in addition to CCTV cameras on all Metro buses which assist with safety and security on board and with investigations by Tasmania Police.

Metro also has a long-standing partnership with police for a dedicated resource.

I look forward to announcing further details as we move into phase 2 of the pilot, and thank the members of the Safe Public Transport Working Group – including Metro Tasmania, Tasmania Police, other bus operators, State Growth and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union – for their valuable contributions and look forward to their continuing support and input as we progress these initiatives.

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