New guards to target bus and train louts

An extra 18 senior network officers will be employed to help stamp out anti-social behaviour on southeast Queensland trains and buses by the end of 2014.

Premier Campbell Newman says the new positions will bring the total number of TransLink senior network officers to 70.

"By delivering a more efficient public transport network, we're able to invest in more security and safety for passengers," Mr Newman said.

The officers were highly trained in de-escalation techniques, transport minister Scott Emerson said.

"Senior network officers ... have extended powers which include the authority to detain and search people where necessary," he said.

They will undertake an intensive eight week training course covering legislative powers, tactical and physical training and conflict management.

The government has said the announcement is not linked to the G20 summit in Brisbane next month.