More than 40 bus industry delegates for the Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) have gathered in western Sydney suburb Mount Druitt to observe the seventh annual Bus Safety Week in New South Wales.
The TWU says the week serves as a reminder that bus safety includes the wellbeing of drivers across the state who ensure users arrive home safely every day.
The union says inaction under the previous government has seen drivers not provided required necessities, adequate training and amenities such as suitable facilities and toilets for breaks.
TWU says it has recently discussed opportunities that improve driver training, including continuous professional development and how to maintain and build on skills currently within NSW’s bus network, while attending a government Bus Taskforce meeting.
TWU NSW and Queensland state secretary Richard Olsen says not improving these services lessens passenger and road user safety.
“As Bus Safety Week unfolds, let us take decisive action to protect those who keep our communities moving,” Olsen says.
“Drivers require a system of continuous professional development to facilitate career advancement.
“Additionally, an industry group comprising Transport for NSW, RTOs, employers and workers must be established to ensure training remains relevant and up to standard.
“This isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about keeping training relevant and up to standard.”