Reports of an attack at the Maroochydore Bus Station on Sunday has sparked calls for more police and transport security resources and no tolerance for bad behaviour.
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said urgent intervention was needed to restore public confidence that they would be safe using public transport.
“Enough is enough. This reported Sunday daylight attack was brazen. I understand someone has been charged. But the public needs to be safe and feel safe, day or night, when using our public transport system and waiting for a bus,” Ms Simpson said.
She said she was being contacted by more members of the public concerned for their safety on the buses, and she wanted resources thrown at the issue to stop these thugs abusing the public.
“There’s been a $44m chop to the State police budget. However I want the Police Minister to get serious about street crime as public safety is vital,” Ms Simpson said.
“There is a growing culture of abuse where some young gangs behave as if they think they’re untouchable.
“Senior Network Officers from the Transport Department are needed to crack down on fare evasion, which I have witnessed on the buses myself after receiving complaints from the public. It creates a culture of disrespect.
“Our hard-working police also need more resources to target this bad behaviour.”
