A nation-wide blitz on bus safety is underway in the wake of a spike in fatal bus crashes over the past five years.
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said the operation, to be run alongside police in most states, aimed to improve safety standards and reduce risks on Australian roads after more than 80 lives were lost in bus crashes since 2020.
“Operation Solstice will run for several weeks and is being conducted in response to a tragic rise in the number of lives lost in crashes involving buses across the country,” Mr Salvati said.
He said from January 2020 to December 2024, there were 71 fatal crashes and 84 lives lost in crashes involving a bus.
“This is deeply concerning, and it’s imperative that we do everything we can to prevent further loss of life on our roads.
“This operation is more than just enforcement. It’s about making sure that everyone who boards a bus, whether it’s for work, school or leisure, returns home safely.”
Mr Salvati said New South Wales and Queensland had experienced the highest number of bus crashes in the past five years, with 40 and 21 lives lost respectively.
Queensland Police Service (QPS) Inspector Gareth Bosley said given the vital role buses played in the transport network, it was essential the community could have confidence in their safety.
“This is why the Queensland Police Service is working with our road safety partners to ensure the safety of bus passengers, drivers, other road users and the broader community, so that we can have confidence in our bus networks.”
Mr Salvati said Operation Solstice would see NHVR officers conduct roadside inspections on buses, checking for safety issues, ensuring vehicles were maintained and mechanically safe, and making certain drivers were fit to drive and were complying with fatigue laws.
