Gold Coast bus drivers are stepping up their industrial action once again and will refuse to accept fares indefinitely.
Around 300 local drivers will take part in the action, joining colleagues in Logan and the Sunshine Coast.
The refusal to take fares took effect from 4am on Friday.
It’s part of an ongoing pay dispute with bus operator Kinetic which has already seen a number of strikes this year.
The Transport Workers’ Union has warned drivers won’t give up until their calls for better wages are answered.
“Public transport is an integral part of any city. We need investment in wages now to put an end to the growing driver shortage before the situation is irreparable,” TWU Qld Director of Organising Jared Abbott said.
“Queensland is expected to undergo significant population growth over the next 10 years and we need to be able to keep up with that demand.”
“Investing in public transport not only increases productivity by ensuring people can get to training and jobs, it reduces traffic in general benefiting all road users”
“Recognizing the critical connection between bus driver wages and a robust transport system is essential for long-term success.”
