A Newcastle bus driver was allegedly assaulted while on duty over the weekend, prompting renewed calls for stronger safety measures for frontline transport workers.

According to police, the driver was allegedly punched and choked by a passenger during the incident. The alleged offender was arrested and charged with multiple offences, appearing before court on Monday and due to reappear next week.

Newcastle MP Sonia Hornery said she was saddened to hear of another attack on a bus driver in the region.

“It pains me to read another media story about a Newcastle bus driver being assaulted during their shift,” Ms Hornery said.

She condemned violence against frontline workers, stating that no worker should face abuse or assault while carrying out their duties.

“Assaulting frontline workers is never okay. Whether they are bus drivers, nurses, paramedics, retail workers or anyone in a public-facing role, they deserve to be safe at work,” she said.

Ms Hornery also backed calls for improved safety measures for bus drivers, saying transport workers deserve greater protection in their workplace.

The incident has again highlighted concerns raised by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union NSW Branch about the safety of drivers across the public transport network.