By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
LATE night Cardinia commuters taking advantage of the government’s new 24-hour public transport trial will be without the protection of PSOs.
Despite the plan coming in $33.6 million over budget, Protective Services Officers will patrol only premium stations under the ‘Homesafe’ plan – leaving commuters disembarking at Cardinia Station to fend for themselves.
The state members for Gembrook and Bass have both hit out and the plan, labelling the project an inefficient use of taxpayer funds.
Member for Gembrook Brad Battin said the advantages of PSOs were not being fully utilised by the government.
“Labor’s ‘Homesafe’ 24-hour public transport trial is over budget and under patrolled,” he said.
“The Coalition introduced PSOs to ensure commuters were able to travel home safely. It is a shame Daniel Andrews is not providing commuters with the protection when they need it most.”
Mr Paynter added that commuters should not be put at risk by travelling at night.
“If trains run during the night, then PSOs should be on duty throughout the night to keep commuters safe,” he said.
“Homesafe should mean you get home safely, without fear.”
The announcement of ‘Homesafe’ outlined funding to employ 109 extra PSOs, however stations not classified as premium will see no benefit.
The trial will come into effect on 1 January, 2016, when public transport will operate overnight on Friday and Saturday nights.
Pakenham train station is a premium station.
