Revenue protection inspector

Revenue inspectors and officers mostly work at railway stations checking passengers' tickets as they board and alight trains, but can also be found on bus services.

If the revenue inspector or officer believes there was intent to avoid payment, a penalty fare may be issued, or the passenger may be reported for prosecution.

As of the 23rd January 2023, Revenue Protection Officers additionally have the power to require anyone suspected of a ticket or bylaw violation to provide their date of birth.

They also have the power to detain people under common or criminal law circumstances: Revenue protection officers also patrol Yarra Trams and Metro Trains Melbourne services in Victoria.

Replacement of conductors with ticket machines as the point of sale method has also resulted in thousands of commuters evading fares on Melbourne trams.

Many people view RPIs and RPOs negatively, and in the discharge of their duties, they regularly face being verbally abused and sometimes even physically assaulted.

Like their Victorian counterparts, these transit officers also carry out security patrols on trains and railway stations, with the power of issuing on-the-spot penalty notices for minor offences, and even to use "reasonable force" to make arrests.

The latter option allows the accused person to challenge the penalty in court, appeal the matter, request for a payment plan or apply for a work and development permit.

They are required to attend a 21-day training course that includes legal powers, railway geography, ticket checking and rails identification safety.