Code of Conduct

The following Code of Conduct sets out acceptable standards of behaviour for students travelling on school buses and regular route buses.

Students are expected to follow these rules for the safety and comfort of all passengers, including themselves. If rules are not followed, it may lead to the withdrawal of travel passes for subsidised travel, banning students from travelling on buses, and even police prosecution and court action.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SCHOOL STUDENTS ON BUSES

It is every student's responsibility to behave in a manner that ensures the safety and comfort of passengers and drivers. This include:

Behavior on buses:

  • Use appropriate language not offensive or racist language
  • Fighting, spitting feet on seats, throwing things in or from the bus is not permitted
  • No eating or drinking (other than water) - unless for medical reasons or the bus operator gives written permission
  • Offer seats to adults including people with a disability, elderly or expectant mothers
  • Do not push or shove other people
  • Do not bully or harass other passengers or the driver
  • Avoid attracting the attention of the driver except in the case of emergency
  • Do not play music at such volume that it may distract the bus driver or other passengers

Safety on and near buses:

  • Obey reasonable directions from the driver (e.g. where to sit or to remain in the bus)
  • Remain in your seat - do not move around the bus unnecessarily
  • If standing, remain behind the front passenger seat and keep a secure hand hold at all times
  • Keep bags and other items clear of the aisle
  • Do not allow any part of your body to protrude out of the bus at any time
  • Wait for the bus in a quiet and orderly manner - including at bus interchanges
  • Stand away from the roadside until the bus before stepping onto the bus at your designated stop
  • Wait until the bus leaves the stop and you have clear vision before crossing the road
  • Cross the road where and when it's safe to do so, use crossings/traffic lights where available

Legal considerations on buses:

  • Wear the seat belt properly adjusted and fastened, if one is available
  • Obey the law that bans smoking on buses
  • Ensure that buses are not vandelised - report any damage, e.g. graffiti and window etching, to the driver
  • Do not interfere with bus property, equipment and signage
  • Do not leave rubbish on the bus, or at bus stops or interchanges

Using bus passes:

  • Show travel passes or tickets to the driver on boarding and to Authorised Revenue Protection Officers, NSW Police Officers or bus company representative when requested
  • Use the travel pass only for its intended purpose - do not lend your pass to other students or borrow a pass for them
  • Swipe or 'dip' passes in ticket readers if available when boarding
  • If issues with a School Opal card, always tap on when boarding and tap off when leaving the bus