Image Credit: Adelaide Metro
From July 1, passengers behaving badly on Adelaide’s public transport could face the toughest penalties in the country, including indefinite bans.
In a national first, the SA Government is giving the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport the power to issue transit barring orders that don’t expire. The move is designed to crack down on violent and antisocial behaviour across the city’s buses, trains and trams, boosting security across the Adelaide Metro.
Under the changes, anyone charged with serious offences – including sexual assault, weapon possession or physical and psychological abuse – can be indefinitely banned from accessing Adelaide Metro services.
Repeat offenders of lower-level behaviour will also face longer bans, up to six months for a first offence, twelve months for a second, and a potential lifetime ban on the third. Anyone banned indefinitely will have the right to apply to the courts after three months.
It marks a major shift in how the state is tackling commuter safety, especially in the wake of rising violence – in 2024 alone, 93 bus drivers were assaulted while on the job and approximately 300 barring orders are issued each year for offensive, disorderly and inappropriate behaviour.
“We are putting in place the toughest passenger transport regulations in the nation,” said Minister Tom Koutsantonis.
“Our message is simple – if you undermine the safety of passengers, or if you assault or threaten our dedicated and skilled drivers, you will be barred from catching public transport.”
The penalty for breaching a transit barring order has also been raised from $2,500 to $7,000, sending a clear message that this behaviour won’t be tolerated.
The new powers build on broader efforts to create a safer network. Security personnel already patrol evening train and tram services, while all vehicles and stations are monitored by 24/7 CCTV. Prescribed Officers wear body cameras and have authority to intervene on the spot.
A $7.5 million rollout of protective safety screens for bus drivers is already in full swing, with 140 of the 940 government-owned buses already fitted. The rollout is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
“We will continue to work in partnership with SA Police, security providers and transport operators to hold to account those who engage in violent, unruly or abusive behaviour towards those travelling or waiting for public transport,” explained Tom.
“There’s no place on our transport system for abuse, threats or violence.”
Passengers are encouraged to report any antisocial behaviour via the Adelaide Metro website or by calling 1300 311 108 (7am – 8pm daily).
WHEN: From July 1
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