Keolis Hunter statement
First and foremost, our thoughts are with our driver who is recovering after being assaulted while driving earlier this week.
Newcastle Transport bus operator, Keolis was advised by the Health and Safety Representative that bus services would cease from 6pm on 27 February until further notice, late Friday afternoon.
The Health and Safety Representative withdrew the action and Newcastle Transport bus services resumed at 4.30pm on 28 February. Delays are expected while timetabled bus services get back up and running.
We have been working closely with SafeWork NSW, RTBU and Health and Safety Representatives since early Friday afternoon to resolve this matter.
SafeWorkNSW determined there is no imminent danger and are satisfied with safety procedures and actions in place.
The safety of our team and customers is our top priority. In addition to the robust safety procedures we have in place, including driver screens, duress buttons, CCTV, radio support and a 24‑hour Operational Control Centre, we will be progressing further improvements such as larger driver safety screens, de‑escalation training and increased Authorised Officers on the network.
We always, and will continue to, work closely with SafeWorkNSW, RTBU and HSRs to identify any further safety measures to continue to improve Bus Operator safety.
