Australia: Unionized bus drivers striking in Canberra as of the afternoon of Nov. 15

Unionized bus drivers in Canberra are striking as of the afternoon of Nov. 15. Transport Workers Union members are participating in the walkout through Nov. 15 to protest the high number of workplace assaults. All buses except special needs buses are suspended; light rail services are operating as usual. Strike organizers may call for further strike action at short notice.

Light rail services will likely experience crowding. Increased private vehicle use will likely lead to traffic congestion on main roads, particularly those heading toward Canberra's Central Business District (CBD). Associated demonstrations are also possible during the strike. Protest activity may materialize at transport hubs, government buildings, public squares, and on major thoroughfares. Violence is unlikely, although isolated scuffles between activists and police cannot be ruled out.