Free Sydney bus rides as drivers turn off Opal card systems

Bus drivers are turning off Opal card systems across Sydney, potentially at cost of $400,000 to the state government. Here’s why.

Travellers on buses across Sydney’s inner west and southwest will ride for free on Monday – potentially costing the state government up to $400,000 in lost fares – with Opal card systems to be shut off amid a pay dispute.

Services across regions three and six of Sydney’s bus network, including Parramatta, Liverpool, Merrylands, Prairiewood, Fairfield, the inner west and south, will be free for 24 hours after union members endorsed the action.

It comes amid tense enterprise agreement negotiations between operator Transit Systems and the unions, who have claimed bus drivers in different regions of Sydney are being paid different rates.

Buses in several suburbs including Parramatta will be free on Monday due to industrial action. Picture: AAP Image

“Bus drivers are turning off the ticket machines to send a message loud and clear to Transit Systems – it’s time for the company to get serious and come to the negotiating table,” Transport Workers’ Union NSW secretary Richard Olsen said.

“(Drivers aren’t) asking for much – all drivers want is a guarantee that whether you’re driving a bus in Liverpool or in Leichhardt, you will be paid the same regardless.”

Mr Olsen said the Opal suspension could be followed by strike action.

A spokesman for Transit Systems said the operator “will continue to work with our employees and look forward to reaching a positive outcome”, adding the firm had “communicated extensively” with drivers.

He said the majority of buses would have operating Opal machines on Monday.

A Transport for NSW spokeswoman said the matter was between Transit Systems and the unions. The impact on Opal revenue would be assessed in “due course”, she said.