Metro bus violence: Security guards set to ride Hobart network
The first stage of a government plan to stamp out anti-social behaviour on public transport is set to begin in Hobart. What to expect >>
Tasmania
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The first phase of a government plan to reduce anti-social behaviour on the state’s public transport network will be operational from this week.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson announced last month there would be a return of transit officers on buses after complaints from passengers.
Mr Ferguson met with the first of the security operators to ride the network on Tuesday as he revealed 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,” he said.
“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 anti-social behaviour.”
Metro Tasmania has recently battled problems with service reliability, caused in part by the impact of anti-social behaviour on driver absenteeism.
Mr Ferguson said the number of incidents across the state network was low, but the government was serious about reducing them to the greatest extent possible.
“These initiatives are in addition to CCTV cameras on all Metro buses which assist with safety and security on board,” he said.
“Metro also has a longstanding partnership with police.”
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