RTBU Media Release: Bus drivers warn timetable a disaster

Bus drivers say the new bus timetable in Newcastle region is proving to be shambolic, with reports of stress for less-able commuters, kids being left stranded and over 200 bus stops being closed.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW Tram and Bus Divisional Secretary, Chris Preston, said that the bus service has been disastrous since the NSW Government privatised the service last year.

“It’s simply not good enough. Day after day we hear reports about things going wrong with the bus service,” Mr Preston said.

“The Transport Minister has a lot to answer for here. He sold off Newcastle’s buses hastily, and the result has been a sub-par service for commuters and workers.

“In addition to all of the timetabling fiasco, we’ve still got bus drivers who aren’t being paid properly by the company.

“Bus drivers warned this would happen if the service was privatised, and unfortunately we’re being proven correct.

“This is a classic example of what happens when you sell an essential service off to the private sector. All of a sudden, profits become more important than providing commuters with a safe and reliable service.”