New Adelaide Metro data shows assaults on passengers and staff fell by 20 per cent in 2025, marking a positive safety outcome one year after train services returned to public management.
Across the train, bus and tram network, 404 incidents were reported last year, down from 502 in 2024 – a decline of 98 assaults. The reduction follows a series of SA Government initiatives aimed at improving safety on public transport.
Safety upgrades included the rollout of polycarbonate screens on all 940 government-owned buses, providing greater protection for drivers. Around 55 per cent of the fleet has been fitted to date as part of the $7.5 million program, which is due for completion by the end of 2026. Bus assaults fell 13 per cent last year, from 238 in 2024 to 208 in 2025.
Security operations also increased, with 14 dedicated operations conducted at key public transport locations, up from nine the previous year. More than 22,000 tickets were checked and 510 passengers were cautioned for fare evasion or inappropriate behaviour.
New laws introduced in 2025 give the South Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport powers to indefinitely ban passengers charged with violent offences, while maximum penalties for breaching transit bans have risen from $2,500 to $7,000. SA Police issued 430 transit barring orders last year.
Other measures include a dedicated security taskforce funded through the $9.6 million 2025‑26 State Budget. Nineteen officers were recruited to strengthen public transport security, bringing the total prescribed officers employed by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport to around 200.
Last financial year, close to 70 million passenger journeys were recorded – almost two million more than the previous year – highlighting growing demand for safe, reliable and accessible public transport.
Passengers are encouraged to report antisocial behaviour via the Adelaide Metro website or by calling the Adelaide Metro InfoLine on 1300 311 108 (7am–8pm daily).
