No Support for Transport Officers who are Assaulted by Passengers

Bulletin 12 – 2016

To: RTBU Transport Officer Members,

The RTBU has become aware that on a large number of occasions Transport Officers have been assaulted by passengers whilst conducting ticket and/or Opal Card inspections.

In the cases where the Transport Officer has affected an arrest after being assaulted they have found themselves under investigation and suspended for extended periods of time. Transport Officers believe that Sydney Trains are not supporting them in these matters.

The RTBU advises our Transport Officer members that their safety comes first at all times

In the event that a Transport Officer is caught up dealing with an aggressive person that assaults them and then affects an arrest there is a strong possibility they will be placed under investigation and suspended during this process.

The RTBU therefore advises the following:

1. Make notes about the incident ASAP.
2. Contact your delegate
3. If you cannot contact your delegate phone the RTBU office.
4. Do not make any comment, statement or any other form of report to your management until you have got advice from the RTBU.

Remember – you have a right to have all the information made available to you (including viewing CCTV) prior to making a statement or memorandum.