Northern Territory bus drivers say they are facing a worsening problem with violence.

Drivers, their families, passengers and members of the Transport Workers Union have held a rally, calling for “urgent, increased and committed” safety measures for Darwin bus drivers and commuters.

TWU Branch Secretary Ian Smith says drivers want enhanced safety measures including new screens on buses.

“They need a safety screen that allows them to do the job safely without fear or favour of being spat on, punched, hit …threatened with a knife,” he said.

Perspex screens have reportedly been fitted on some buses for a trial. 

“We're pleased to go and have a look at a prototype on Monday to see where that's going,” Mr Smith said. 

The union official also said the bus network is also in need of more transit officers.

“We've been asking for seven, eight, nine, 10 [more] — the number until it's safe,” he said. 

“They can intervene before [an incident] escalates into something more serious.

“That's what's been occurring, little actions happen … and all of a sudden you've got a full-blown fight or a driver in trouble because he's got a busload of passengers that is out of control.”

New legislation came into effect last month that allows NT transit officers to issue bans to problem passengers on the buses, at bus stops and at bus interchanges.

Under the recent amendments to the Public Transport (Passenger Safety) Act, transit officers also gained the power to arrest people for offences like assault and property damage.

Transport Minister Eva Lawler spoke at the rally on Sunday, and said the NT government will put on additional transit officers and security guards.