Yarra Trams has launched a new initiative to make late-night travel feel safer for passengers.
Teams of three “Trambassadors” are now operating across tram routes 12, 19, 57, 86, 96 and 109 in Melbourne.
Yarra Trams said the Trambassadors’ focus is to provide a “friendly, highly-trained presence to deter antisocial behaviour and support passengers who may feel unsafe or need assistance”.
The mixed-gender teams are trained in de-escalation techniques, compassionate engagement, and trauma-informed practices.
Passengers will be able to identify them by their green and navy uniforms, as well as a new Trambassador icon appearing in the TramTracker app and at selected stops.
Passengers are encouraged to approach the Trambassadors at any point during their journey if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe, or need help with wayfinding.
The Trambassadors program was co-designed with frontline Yarra Trams employees and behavioural science experts from The Behavioural Architects.
Research carried out during its development found that passengers feel 17 per cent safer when visible, approachable staff are present onboard a tram.
Visit Where to find Trambassadors for service information.
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