Driver Training

Before a driver commences driving with us they undertake comprehensive training to ensure our vehicles operate safely through the communities we service. A two week induction program involves learning about bus routes, fares and ticketing as well as polishing their driving skills to meet Busways driving standards.

All new drivers commence a traineeship – Transport Distribution Road Transport Certificate 3. The traineeship is the equivalent of a Trades Certificate. It recognises the skills needed to be a professional driver.

This ongoing training is given over a two year period and is mainly on-the-job. We use our own driver assessors as well as a professional training company, Into Training Australia, to complete this program.

Subject areas covered include:

• Customer service skills
• Occupational Health and Safety procedures
• Driving MR vehicles
• Using bus communication systems
• Managing disruptive and/or unlawful behaviour
• Using ticket machines

When they successfully complete the traineeship, drivers receive a certificate that recognises them as a professional driver, ready to deal with all situations they will meet on the road.

In addition, drivers have access to regular training through updates and refresher sessions with Busways’ RTA qualified trainers and assessors.

New policies and procedures affecting occupational health and safety (eg: Drug and Alcohol procedures) are discussed through OH&S committees and presented throughout the company.

We use our regular company newsletter to convey information about changes that affect drivers and other staff (OH&S, road laws etc.).