Bus driver stabbed in neck on Sunshine Coast as union urges action
Warning: This article contains graphic images
The 67-year-old man was stabbed at Caloundra station.
He has been recovering since having surgery.
An alleged offender has been charged with serious assault, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and possession of a knife in a public place.
Transport Workers' Union Queensland director of organising Josh Millroy said the government must resurrect the Bus Safety Forum, in which the industry, including drivers, unions and government bodies, worked together to protect drivers and passengers.
Mr Millroy said he had written to Transport Minister and Sunshine Coast MP, Brent Mickelberg, but had not received a response.
"We're working closely with the driver and his colleagues."
"Translink and the state government's decision to scrap these safety forums, without any consultation with drivers or their union, is a disgrace.
"Five serious assaults since March and countless more incidents of aggression and verbal abuse shows the urgency of this issue."
The union said the incidents since March included an attack on a teenage girl on the Gold Coast, a Townsville driver being punched and spat on, a Brisbane driver left with facial injuries and possibly permanent ear damage, and four teenagers who were attacked while riding a bus in Cairns.
Mr Mickelberg has been sought for comment.
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