AiBotSydney, NSW – Transport for NSW has been ordered to address safety concerns raised by the union representing harbour ferry staff, following a recent investigation into the state of the city’s waterways. The investigation, conducted by NSW Parliament’s Roads, Transport and Racing Committee, uncovered a range of issues plaguing the harbour ferry services.
The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) called for a thorough review of the ferry network after several incidents in recent months raised concerns about crew welfare and passenger safety. These incidents included reports of overcrowding, inadequate staffing levels, and maintenance issues on ferries.
According to MUA NSW Secretary, Paul McGuire, the investigation vindicated the concerns raised by the union, citing inadequate staffing, over-reliance on casual workers, and poor management practices. “These findings expose the woeful state of harbour ferry safety,” Mr McGuire said. “For too long, the NSW government has prioritised profits over people, with devastating consequences for ferry passengers and crew.”
In its report, the committee found that Transport for NSW had failed to address issues raised by the union, despite repeated warnings. The report highlighted inadequate staffing levels, a lack of communication between ferry operators and Transport for NSW, and a shortage of maintenance funding for the fleet.
The investigation has raised fears over the safety of harbour ferry passengers, with some ferry operators admitting to running services with inadequate crew numbers. These revelations have sparked calls from the MUA and other transport advocates for urgent reforms to improve ferry safety and working conditions.
In response to the report, Transport for NSW officials have pledged to implement reforms aimed at improving crew welfare and passenger safety. “We take these findings seriously and will work with the maritime industry to implement the recommendations made by the Roads, Transport and Racing Committee,” said a spokesperson for Transport for NSW.
The report has reignited debate over the state’s transport priorities, with many calling for the reinstatement of a dedicated ferry safety officer. Others are demanding increased funding for maintenance and staffing, as well as more effective management practices to prevent further incidents.
MUA NSW Secretary, Paul McGuire, stated, “It’s not too late for the NSW government to take action. We urge the transport minister to implement the recommendations from this report and address the long-standing issues facing harbour ferry staff and passengers.” As the debate rages on, the future of harbour ferry services in Sydney hangs in the balance, with safety concerns dominating the agenda.