Sydney's train graffiti bill costs taxpayers $600k each week
Shock new figures show Sydney's graffiti vandals are costing taxpayers $600,000 each week.
It comes as the vandals take their attacks to a new level, going from simple tags to painting entire carriages.
Taxpayers are footing a $100 million state-wide clean up bill each year, with the worst vandalism found in Redfern, Newtown, Campbelltown, Waterfall, Blacktown and Berowra.
In vision sent to 7 News, vandals are seen attacking a train at Helensburgh at 2.30pm on Monday as commuters watch through the window.
Some vandals were able to paint three entire carriages before being stopped while tagging a fourth.
“These individuals are not only damaging trains, they are putting their own lives at risk,” Assistant Commissioner Max Mitchell, from the Police Transport Command, said.
Described by Sydney Trains boss Howard Collins as “wanton vandalism”, there’s concern the graffiti is leading to a bigger anti-social problem.
“They’re a bit more than kids, they’re a real threat to staff,” Rail, Tram and Bus Union spokesperson Bob Newham said.
“There have been several instances of staff being assaulted by these people.”
“From my point of view, it’s a pretty crazy thing to do filming yourself graffiting trains,” Mr Collins added.
“Maybe the next shot will be someone being killed or seriously injured.”
