Canberra bus strike

A Call to Action for Safer Public Transport
Imagine stepping out of your home, eager to start your day, only to find that the bus you rely on to get to work is nowhere to be seen. This was the reality for countless Canberrans on Friday, November 15, 2024, as bus drivers in the nation's capital went on strike.
The strike was a spontaneous decision sparked by a growing number of assaults on bus drivers and a perceived lack of protective measures. Drivers had been facing increasing verbal and physical abuse from passengers, and they felt their concerns were not being adequately addressed.
The impact of the strike was immediate and significant. Thousands of commuters were left stranded at bus stops, struggling to find alternative transportation. Schools were forced to cancel bus services, leaving many students without a way to get to class. The city's already congested roads became even more chaotic, as frustrated commuters resorted to driving or ride-sharing services.

The strike also sent a clear message to the government and the community: bus drivers are not just a means of transportation; they are essential workers who deserve to feel safe and respected in their workplace.

The strike ended on Saturday, November 16, after negotiations between the Transport Workers' Union and the ACT government. The government agreed to a number of measures to improve safety for bus drivers, including increased security on buses and at bus stops, as well as a commitment to working with the union to address the root causes of violence against drivers.

>The Canberra bus strike was a reminder that public transport is a vital part of our city. It is a service that we all rely on, and it is essential that we ensure that it is safe and accessible for everyone.

The strike was also a call to action. It is time for all of us to stand up against violence and abuse on public transport. We need to let our bus drivers know that we appreciate their hard work, and that we are committed to making public transport a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

Here are some things that we can all do to help:

Be respectful to bus drivers. They are doing an important job, and they deserve our respect.
Report any incidents of violence or abuse to the police. This will help to hold offenders accountable and deter future incidents.
Support organizations that are working to improve safety on public transport. These organizations are making a real difference in the lives of bus drivers and passengers alike.

By working together, we can make public transport a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.