Over the past five years, we have tragically lost 84 lives in bus crashes across the country, leaving families shattered and communities in shock.
These devastating events have highlighted the urgent need for a renewed focus on bus safety.
This month, the NHVR launched Operation Solstice, a comprehensive bus safety operation which is currently taking place across the country, aimed at addressing these concerns.
There are two main focuses of Operation Solstice: the condition of the buses, and the fitness of the drivers behind the wheel.
NHVR safety and compliance officers (SCOs) will work collaboratively with police in most states, conducting thorough inspections of buses, focusing on their mechanical safety, and ensuring drivers aren’t fatigued.
Officers will focus their compliance and enforcement efforts on specific locations across the country that we have identified as high risk, with the aim of preventing any potential bus-related incidents.
Buses carry precious cargo, with up to 50 people on board, so it is crucial we make sure everyone who gets on a bus – whether it’s for work, school or leisure – makes it home safely.
This operation isn’t just about enforcing the law, it’s about educating industry on their safety obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL), ensuring they are doing everything they can to protect their passengers.
One issue that we are seeing is split shift drivers remaining at the yard, rather than travelling home to have a proper rest break, particularly in urban areas. I would like to remind drivers that they are required to have adequate rest between shifts by law.
Failing to do so can disrupt their ability to recharge, and ensure they are well-rested and ready to drive. Drivers should be vigilant in adhering to their work and rest requirements, including scheduling rest breaks, keeping an accurate work diary and taking proactive steps to manage fatigue.
Operation Solstice will also ensure that buses are in optimal condition – free from any safety risks like faulty brakes or defective lights.
Drivers should also be inspecting inside and outside of their vehicle before they commence their journey, and at the conclusion of every shift.
Cabin and occupant safety is also crucial – this includes making sure seat belts are functioning, seat bases are secured correctly, and loose items are secured while the vehicle is moving.
This national operation is a crucial step towards holding both operators and their drivers accountable, ensuring they are meeting critical safety obligations that are designed to keep all road users safe. While we know most bus operators do the right thing and follow these safety protocols, the stakes are far too high for complacency.
On the other hand, it’s also crucial for general motorists to ensure they drive safely around buses. By law, a motorist must not overtake or pass a bus with flashing lights at more than 40km/h.
The NHVR launched the bus iteration of the We All Need Space road safety campaign in April 2024, to remind all road users of the importance of giving buses the space they need on Australian roads.
Finally, I would like to remind all drivers that if you see something related to heavy vehicle safety that endangers the welfare of yourself or other road users, please contact the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line on 1800 931 785.
By undertaking Operation Solstice, we hope to reduce the risk of further tragedies, offering greater peace of mind to every person who gets on a bus – and every family or friend who expects them to return home safely.
- Paul Salvati is the NHVR’s Chief Operations Officer