BREAKING: Newcastle buses forced to stop after driver brutally stabbed – Union says all services to cease from 6pm until safety plans in place

Media release, 27 Feb 2026: Bus services across Newcastle will stop running from 6pm today (Friday 27 February) after a bus driver was brutally stabbed while working in Charlestown.

A Health and Safety Representative (HSR) issued a cease unsafe work direction at approximately 4pm today.

The immediate stoppage will affect all services and will remain in place until further notice.

The attack is the latest in a string of violent assaults against bus drivers in the region.

Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) NSW Tram, and Bus Division President, Peter Grech,said drivers had been left with no choice after Keolis failed to provide assurances that staff and passengers would be protected.

“This is a brutal and horrifying attack on a worker who was simply doing their job,” Mr Grech said.

“Our drivers are being spat on, assaulted and now stabbed. Enough is enough.”

“We met with the company today demanding immediate safety measures. They refused to guarantee our members’ safety. If they can’t guarantee safety, buses cannot run.”

Mr Grech said the decision to stop services was not taken lightly.

“We know this will disrupt people’s lives, but safety comes first. No one should get on a bus wondering if they’ll make it home safely.

“This is not a one-off. This is a pattern, and until Keolis commits to addressing the pattern, services will not resume.” Buses currently operating will continue their services. No new bus services will operate from 6pm.