NHVR launch bus safety blitz in response to tragic crashes

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has launched a national operation that will see buses across the country subject to roadside inspections and fatigue checks following an “alarming number” of bus crashes.

Operation Solstice is set to run for several weeks and aims to improve safety standards and reduce risks on Australian roads.

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“The nation has witnessed an alarming number of fatal bus incidents over the past five years, which have had devastating impacts on families and communities,” NHVR COO Paul Salvati says.

“Tragically, from January 2020 to December 2024, there were 71 fatal crashes, and 84 lives lost in crashes involving a bus – this is deeply concerning, and it’s imperative that we do everything we can to prevent further loss of life on our roads.

“The NHVR is partnering with police across most states, as we often do, to conduct Operation Solstice and safeguard bus passengers, drivers and other road users.

“This operation is more than just enforcement; it’s about making sure that everyone who boards a bus – whether it’s for work, school or leisure – returns home safely.”

New South Wales and Queensland have experienced the highest number of bus crashes in the past 5 years, with 40 and 21 lives lost respectively.

The safety blitz will see officers conduct roadside inspections on buses, checking for safety issues, ensuring vehicles are maintained and mechanically safe, and making certain drivers are fit to drive and are complying with fatigue laws.

The NHVR SCOs will focus their efforts on specific locations across the country that have been pinpointed as high risk.

“Unfortunately, some bus operators and their drivers may not understand or be aware of their safety obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, especially relating to fatigue,” Salvati says.

“An issue we are seeing is split shift drivers remaining at the yard instead of travelling home to have a proper rest break, particularly in urban areas.

“I would like to remind drivers that they are required to have adequate rest between shifts by law, and failing to do so can disrupt their ability to fully recharge between shifts and ensure they are fit to drive.

“Operation Solstice is a crucial step towards holding both operators and their drivers accountable, ensuring they are meeting critical safety obligations that are designed to keep all road users safe.”

Salvati says that every life lost on the roads is a “tragedy” and this new operation is to “ensure safety is never compromised”.

“Buses carry precious cargo – they can carry up to 50 people – with so many of us relying on them every day to get to our destination,” he said.

“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy, and no family or friend should ever have to experience the heartbreak of losing a loved one this way.

QPS Inspector Gareth Bosley of the Road Policing Group says it is vital that the community have confidence in their safety.

“This is why the Queensland Police Service is working with our road safety partners to ensure the safety of bus passengers, drivers, other road users and the broader community, so that we can have confidence in our bus networks,” Bosley says.

Bus drivers should inspect their vehicle both prior to departure and at the conclusion of their shift to ensure it’s mechanically safe.

“Cabin and occupant safety is also crucial – this includes making sure seat belts are functioning, seat bases are secured correctly, and loose items are secured while the vehicle is moving,” Salvati says.

“The NHVR is committed to ensuring the families affected by the recent tragic bus crashes can see that tangible steps are being taken to ensure the highest safety standards are being upheld by the entirety of industry.