The NSW Government is introducing updated Safety Management System (SMS) Guidelines to take effect from Friday, 24 October, to deliver safer, more reliable bus services across all parts of the state.

The government says this is a major step forward, shifting operators away from outdated, one-size-fits-all rules to a modern, risk-based framework that reflects contemporary workplace safety standards.

The new measures were a key recommendation of the NSW Bus Industry Taskforce and mark the first major update to the Guidelines since 2005.

The reforms are part of the Government’s broader transformation agenda to lift safety, reliability and service quality across the state’s bus network. Initiatives already in place include retrofitting seatbelts, rolling out awareness campaigns and reducing Sydney’s bus driver shortfall from 500 in April 2023 to just 123 today, with 176 more drivers in training.

One year on from the Bus Industry Taskforce’s final report, the government is continuing to build on the improvements made to buses across the state.

Key elements of the updated SMS Guidelines include:

• A stronger focus on identifying and managing safety hazards.
• Flexibility for operators to tailor safety systems to their size, complexity and risks.
• Full alignment with workplace health and safety laws.
• A culture of continuous safety improvement across the industry.

Transport for NSW will be providing education and support to help operators transition, with the Guidelines forming part of a broader reform program to strengthen regulation of the bus industry.

The NSW Government committed $452 million in the 2025–26 Budget, which will fund these improvements, ensuring more services, new buses and support for local operators across the state.

Minister for Transport John Graham said, “These reforms are about putting passenger and driver safety first, while modernising the way our bus system is regulated.

“The updated Guidelines give operators the flexibility they need to manage risks effectively, while ensuring every journey is backed by the highest standards of safety.

“Under the Minns Labor Government, people can have confidence that our bus network is safer, stronger and built for the future.”

Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said, “Whether you live in the city or the country, buses are a lifeline that keep people connected and improve access to health, education, jobs and opportunity.

“These reforms will help regional operators put in place systems that reflect their unique risks and challenges, while staying aligned with best practice across the state.

“The Minns Government is delivering safer, more reliable bus services for every community in NSW.”