Bass MP Ken Smith said a large percentage of the 400 people who have so far responded to the survey felt unsafe on the train and afraid to travel at night.

He said the survey results also showed concerns over young males travelling in groups, raising fears of drunkenness, drug usage, violence, assaults and vandalism. "Some even indicated that unless security was improved, they would refuse to travel on the line."

Mr Smith said an ongoing police and security presence was needed to restore community confidence.

Senior Sergeant Alan McCarthy said transit police and uniformed Cardinia members regularly patrolled the station and adjoining car park.

He said assaults, anti-social behaviour, drug- and alcohol-related offences and theft from or of motor vehicles were not a "significant" problem in the area.

"We rely on the public to keep us informed. The biggest thing people can do to combat these issues is report it by calling 000."

Mr Smith said 74per cent of respondents stated hygiene was a problem.

He said respondents also wanted more car parking spaces, more peak hour services, less overcrowding and improved timetable connections with other public transport services.

Suggestions to improve train travel on the line included security cameras, manned stations and the visible presence of Connex officers and police.

Connex spokesperson John Rees said the company had worked closely with police to address issues on the Pakenham line.

"We believe everyone has a right to feel safe on the railway, but we have to realise society does not stop at a ticket barrier - and the issues raised are there for the entire community to address."