In a move that has generated significant attention, Sydney’s Northern Beaches council has instituted a ban on bikini-clad and shirtless passengers using its free community shuttle bus service, known as Hop, Skip and Jump. This decision follows feedback from fellow passengers concerned about overall cleanliness. The bus service, which operates daily and caters to beachgoers, has sparked debate about dress codes in public transport, particularly in coastal areas where swimwear is common.

A visible sign in Manly explicitly states the new dress code, urging passengers to 'dress appropriately' and indicating that clothing must be worn over swimwear. The council explains that this policy aligns with local legislation allowing bus drivers to refuse entry when a passenger's attire is deemed likely to dirty or damage the vehicle or cause inconvenience to others. This policy aims to maintain a comfortable environment for all passengers, particularly in light of potential issues with wet or sandy clothing.

The decision has garnered mixed reactions, with some supporting the council's commitment to cleanliness and others criticizing the move as outdated or unnecessary. The episode has captured media attention, with segments aired on national television drawing attention to the evolving conversations about public decency, hygiene, and the expectations placed on beachgoers in public spaces. As the debate continues, it evokes broader discussions about social norms and public transport regulations in leisure-centric communities like Sydney's Northern Beaches.