Police hunt Gold Coast bus driver attacker

Police are searching for a man who attacked a bus driver in the Gold Coast suburb of Southport because he reportedly could not buy a ticket with a $50 or $100 note.

The 63-year-old bus driver was punched in the face after being dragged out of the bus by the collar by the young man, who was shirtless and wearing grey board shorts.

"I think he tried to pay his fare with a $50 or $100 note and the bus driver might have said no," a witness told the Gold Coast Bulletin.

"Next thing he was out of the bus and picked up his things which had fallen out of his bag."

The attacker fled the scene on foot.

He is being described as being in his late teens or twenties, with short, spiky hair.

The assault took place about 8.20am this morning.

The driver suffered minor facial injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.