Busways has invested in a major CCTV upgrade project across its Greater Sydney fleet, enabling live access to onboard CCTV footage through its Operations Control Centre (OCC) and improving onboard safety for passengers and drivers.  

Busways’ Operations Control team can now remotely view and respond to incidents in real time using up to eight upgraded cameras inside and outside each bus, across almost 900 buses operating in Western Sydney, Northwest Sydney and the Central Coast. 

Previously, CCTV footage could only be accessed by physically retrieving a memory card from the bus. Now, incidents can be reviewed immediately and, when necessary, shared with police to support investigations and help keep services moving. 

The improvement has already proven valuable in critical situations.  

Busways OCC Manager Bhim Raj Singh recalled a recent incident where a driver was unaware a passenger seated directly behind them — hidden in a blind spot — had been wounded.  

“From the live CCTV feed, I could see the situation clearly and instructed the driver to secure the bus and assist the passenger,” Mr Singh said. “Without live footage, that incident may have escalated.” 

Head of Assets at Busways Chris Wolf said the project reflects Busways’ ongoing focus on using technology to strengthen different aspects of the business. “We are always looking for ways to improve safety and support better outcomes for passengers, drivers and the wider community,” Mr Wolf said. 

“When incidents occur, we can now assist police immediately with footage, help clear roads faster, and reduce disruption for the entire community. It’s about being dependable when it matters most.” 

The technology has also supported faster response during major road incidents. In one case, a motorbike collided with a bus in Shalvey, and police initially considered closing the road for an extended investigation. Mr Singh’s team was able to review and share the relevant CCTV footage immediately. 

“The footage showed the rider came out of an alleyway behind a parked truck without stopping,” Mr Singh said. “As soon as police saw the video, they cleared the road within half an hour. It could have been an all-night diversion otherwise.” 

The upgrade reflects Busways commitment to strengthen safety outcomes and improve operational responsiveness across the network. We continue to work with Transport for NSW to provide safer public transport to the communities we serve.