Bus privatisation: tenders announced

Just yesterday, the NSW Government announced the official tender process for the privatisation of buses in regions 7, 8 and 9. These are the last of the state-owned bus services.

It’s a slap in the face for frontline transport workers who have been putting themselves – and their families – in harm’s way during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the NSW Government’s put on a public face thanking bus drivers during this time, they’ve been scheming to take away and attack their jobs behind closed doors. Not only are they going after drivers, they’re also going after commuters. Cutting jobs and services profits no one except the NSW Government’s bottom line.

We know privatisation doesn’t work. We’ve seen it in the inner-west and in Newcastle already where on-time running is down, routes have been cut, stops have closed, and workers’ conditions have been attacked.

This is the thin edge of the wedge and we need to take action now before the government looks to privatising other transport services including trains.

You can help by calling Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s office and telling her to reverse the decision. You can reach her on (02) 9439 4199.

The Premier is ultimately the one with oversight on privatisation plans and she is even privatising buses in her own electorate.

You can also support our fellow union bus drivers by sending them a message of thanks.

We can fight against the NSW Government’s plans to privatise if we all work together and support each other.

In solidarity.