Security guards are being deployed on public transport services around Hobart, with the aim of increasing safety and reducing antisocial behaviour.
The new ‘transit officers’ will patrol buses on key urban, metropolitan and regional routes and work alongside the existing Metro bus CCTV camera network.
According to the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael Ferguson, this increased safety presence will ensure the public transport system is ‘as safe as possible’ for both 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,” the Minister said.
“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.”
The State Government hopes the trial, which is currently in phase one, will protect bus drivers and passengers from ‘aggressive and offensive behaviour’ onboard Tasmania’s buses.
