The Transport Workers’ Union has called for “immediate action” to improve safety at a town centre bus stop after incidents involving groups of youths.
The TWU urged levels of government to do more to curb antisocial behaviour at the Caloundra Bus Interchange.
In response, authorities said they were taking steps to tackle problems in the area, with increased patrols and weapons scanning among the measures being used.
TWU Queensland director of organising Josh Millroy voiced the group’s concerns.
“Bus drivers should never have to fear for their safety while transporting passengers, nor should passengers be exposed to this type of behaviour while using public transport,” he said.
“The TWU has written to the key stakeholders and decision makers involved: it’s time for them to act.”
“This issue is only getting worse on the Sunshine Coast.
“We will continue to work with our members, delegates and HSRs across the network to provide support and fight for safety improvements.”
The group stated that drivers and health and safety representatives have lodged numerous hazard reports in recent months, raising concerns about large groups gathering at the interchange – particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings – alcohol consumption, suspected drug use, verbal abuse, threats and intimidating behaviour.
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Reports have also detailed objects being thrown at buses, people moving dangerously between vehicles, harassment of drivers accessing staff facilities and broken glass, bottles and suspected drug-related items being left around the interchange. One driver reported needing to contact police on three consecutive occasions.
A driver was seriously injured in 2025, leading to the installation of a safe room.
The TWU said that bus operator Kinetic had “stepped in to fund security patrols on Friday and Saturday nights” but levels of government “must come to the table”.
The TWU demanded an urgent review of safety at the interchange and the immediate installation of a permanent, appropriately trained security presence during identified high-risk periods.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed recent incidents.
“Police were called to the Caloundra Bus Interchange on October 9 and again on October 17, to reports a group of youths was creating a disturbance,” they said.
“On both occasions, the youths were directed to move on and complied, with the incidents resolved without further issue.”
The spokesperson said there were ongoing efforts focused on safety.
“Caloundra Police are continuing to work with external stakeholders and conduct proactive patrols to target antisocial behaviour around the Caloundra bus interchange as part of Operation Whiskey Youth,” they said.
“Officers are also scanning for weapons in line with Jack’s Law. Since January 1, 347 people have been scanned for weapons in the Caloundra division including 226 juveniles.”
“Police are committed to disrupting antisocial behaviour and holding perpetrators to account and would like to thank the community for their assistance in reporting this behaviour.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said authorities were committed to safety, and steps were being taken to address issues at the station, which is at the Caloundra Transit Centre on Cooma Terrace within the CBD.
“We are working with Queensland Police to increase patrols at the Caloundra Bus Interchange to stamp out anti-social behaviour … and help restore safety,” he said.
“TMR, working with the operator, has already rostered security guards and installed a break room for drivers.”
Cr Terry Landsberg said new tenancy arrangements could help improve conditions at the interchange.
“We are responsible for a council-owned asset and public space CCTV, but it does not operate as a security function,” he said.
“With the recent announcement of the state government Department of Transport taking over ground level lease of the interchange, it will be a positive measure to see an increase in activity on site.
“Council continues to maintain property maintenance, which, at times, we see significant property damage.
“This lease arrangement will also support Translink and a safer area for the bus drivers and staff to use during the day and evening.”
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