Premier announces bus fleet to be fitted with security cameras

12/2/02
The State Government today launched a crackdown on bus security with the announcement of a $6.5million program to install cameras in Perth's metropolitan bus fleet.
Inspecting the new system today, Premier Geoff Gallop said the installation of the cameras would not only assist in the protection of passengers and drivers, but was a key part of Transperth's anti-vandalism strategy.
"Our Government is committed to providing a public bus service that is not only safe, but where passengers are not subjected to surroundings that have been defaced and destroyed by thoughtless individuals," Dr Gallop said.
He said the sophisticated camera system being fitted to the bus fleet would provide high quality video evidence to be gathered as part of the ongoing campaign to stamp out vandalism.
"The new security system has already paid dividends during a pilot program with buses operating in the northern suburbs," he said.
"In an operation with the Joondalup Police to crackdown on graffiti, a young person was caught and convicted on the video evidence and ordered to pay restitution."
The Premier said vandals were causing more than $2million worth of damage to Perth's bus fleet each year.
"For Path Transit - the bus operator in the northern suburbs - it was a never-ending headache, with its entire fleet of 320 buses being constantly vandalised, resulting in repairs costing $650,000," he said.
"Across the metropolitan area it is estimated that within seven days of joining the fleet, the windows in a new bus have been scratched in some way, which can cost up to $4,000 if all the windows in a bus have to be replaced.
"Unfortunately, it is those who rely on the bus service who are most affected, with funds being directed towards costly repairs rather than improvements to the services."
The bus security system utilises high-resolution cameras mounted in different positions throughout the bus and it will be fitted to all new Transperth buses during construction, and 'retro-fitted' to buses already in service.
Dr Gallop reminded people that there was a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of those caught vandalising the transport system.
People can report vandalism to Perth's public transport system by telephoning Safelink on 13 16 08.
Premier's office: 9222 9475