A bus driver blamed for one of Australia's deadliest crashes is facing more than 40 extra charges over the smash that killed 10 people returning from a wedding in the NSW Hunter Valley.
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Brett Andrew Button was initially charged with 10 counts of dangerous driving causing death when he first appeared in Cessnock Local Court in June.
But the bus driver has been hit with a series of extra charges, including nine counts of dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm.
Another 24 charges of causing bodily harm through misconduct were also laid against the 57-year-old.
Button was behind the wheel of a bus carrying 35 wedding guests when it flipped and smashed in the NSW Hunter Valley shortly before midnight on June 11.
Nine passengers were killed at the scene and another died on the way to hospital.
During Button's initial appearance, Magistrate Robyn Richardson expressed concerns for his wellbeing and granted him parole despite police opposition.
She said passenger statements about Button's behaviour in the lead-up to the crash made for a strong prosecution case, but his family ties and bail conditions reduced the risk of absconding or witness tampering.
Button is accused of driving dangerously fast in thick fog and telling passengers to "fasten your seatbelts" moments before losing control at a roundabout.
The bus then smashed into a guard rail before tipping and crashing on its side.
Button is due to appear before Newcastle Local Court on August 9.
Australian Associated Press
