Media release – Rail, Tram and Bus Union Tasmania, 4 March, 2022
7 out 10 Metro bus drivers have been threatened on the job
A survey of over 100 Metro Tasmania bus drivers has found that 7 in ten drivers have been threatened while working, and a staggering 98% of drivers have been verbally abused.
The survey also found that:
- 67% of operators believe metro doesn’t take their safety seriously;
- 91% believe the safety culture has not improved in the past 5 years;
- 50% of drivers are either very likely or somewhat likely to resign;
- Lifetime bans for repeat offenders (74%), more Transit Officers on identified problem routes (72%) and temporary suspension of services on routes subject to repeated violent offences (70%) were the highest rating measures to improve safety
- 67% have no confidence in current management to run Metro, 24% unsure, and only 9% having confidence
- 71% feel their confidence in the ability of management has deteriorated in the past 12 months (somewhat and greatly combined)
- Main reasons for the high levels of resignation from Metro were safety 76%, wages 73%, rosters 65%, (Covid – often blamed by management, only 8%!)
The following statement can be attributed to RTBU Tasmania Secretary Ric Bean:
The results of the survey are shocking, but not surprising.
Violent and anti-social behaviour on our public transport services is getting out of control. It’s not fair on drivers, and it’s not fair on passengers.
These problems are statewide, and they require urgent attention from Metro management and the State Government.
Our members have had a gutful. Already we have seen many bus drivers leave the industry because conditions are so bad, and concerningly half of the members we surveyed are considering resigning.
Congestion on roads is getting worse, but we can’t expect people to switch from their cars to public transport if they are worried about their safety.
