Operation Cover: Wear face mask on the bus or cop a fine

Mask up, bus commuters – police are out fining those not wearing a face covering, while unlimited free travel for seniors becomes the latest election pledge.

Adelaide’s bus commuters are being stung with $1090 fines as SA Police reveal they’re out targeting those not complying with the mask mandate.

Operation Cover started earlier this month to ensure travellers take safety precautions.

A total of 28 verbal cautions, 44 fine cautions and five fines have been issued.

Previously SAPOL had taken an education-first approach and reminding passengers to remain safe, but a spokesperson said Operation Cover would continue until February 27.

Those with an exemption will not be penalised.

Meanwhile, Labor leader Peter Malinauskas on Friday pledged to offer free public transport for senior South Australians at any time and day.

Currently, free travel is available during interpeak periods on weekdays but Labor’s plan goes further, making travel free at all times, on any day.

“Many senior South Australians are struggling to stay on top of their bills and their day-to-day costs,” Mr Malinauskas said.

“Providing free public transport at all hours for senior South Australians is a simple measure which will make life easier for them, while also saving them money.”

The initiative would cost $1.2 million a year, which the Labor leader described as a “sensible investment to ensure that we get people back on public transport”.