More than 800 buses across South Australia's extensive public transport network will become a rolling reminder for criminals and those with an appetite for antisocial behaviour – eyes are watching and Crime Stoppers is just a phone call away.
Torrens Transit and Crime Stoppers SA have partnered in a huge boost for public transport safety with the charity organisation's logo and contact details to be printed across all Adelaide Metro and private buses operated by Torrens Transit.
The collaboration follows the Marshall Liberal Government's historic cash injection worth more than $800,000 for Crime Stoppers, which was announced in 2020-21 State Budget.
Clint Feuerherdt, Chief Executive of SeaLink Travel Group, the owner of Torrens Transit, said signage will be seen prominently on the outside and inside of buses, at depots, and along some of Adelaide's busiest roads.
"We hope to build awareness amongst passengers about the ability to share what they know about unsolved crime and suspicious activity with Crime Stoppers," he said.
"We believe that by partnering with Crime Stoppers, we are actively working together to deter antisocial behaviour and ensure a safer community, not just on public transport, but across the state."
Crime Stoppers SA Chief Executive Mark Day said the new partnership will also bolster the safety of drivers and other transport workers.
"We commend Torrens Transit on supporting Crime Stoppers with this partnership, which in addition to the Government funding will make a real difference in our community," Mr Day said.
"As people are travelling on a bus, they might see something outside or inside the bus that they know to be an offence or which just doesn't feel right.
"We encourage people to be on the lookout for suspicious activity and share what they know with Crime Stoppers. An average of 25 crimes are solved each and every week in South Australia thanks to information provided by the community."
Transport Workers Union SA branch secretary Ian Smith said everyone has a part to play.
"This partnership is a step forward towards a safer bus network for both drivers and passengers. We're calling on public transport users to report bad behaviour to Crime Stoppers whenever they see it," Mr Smith said.
Attorney-General Vickie Chapman said the State Government's proud investment in Crime Stoppers has now formally been signed off.
"This partnership will see $200,000, indexed over four years, delivered directly to the essential crime fighting service, allowing it to expand its operations," Attorney-General Chapman said.
Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Vincent Tarzia, said the first-ever direct funding to Crime Stoppers from any State Government is in addition to more than $90 million allocated to SAPOL in the 2020-21 State Budget.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is dedicated to strengthening the safety and security of all South Australians," Minister Tarzia said.
"Crime Stoppers is another way we can keep the community safe. It has proven time and time again that tips from the public make a difference. Proactive crime awareness campaigns like this are important, so please don't hesitate if you see something. Make the call and help solve a crime."
In case of an emergency, people should call 000. For non-urgent police assistance, call 131 444. If you have information about an unsolved crime or suspicious behaviour, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au.
