Bus driver profession offers lucrative opportunities in Australia
In Australia, bus driving is proving to be a financially rewarding profession, according to recruiter Alana Mohi. She stated that bus drivers can earn up to AUD 110,000 depending on the location and company.
Mohi emphasised that it is classified as an entry-level position, requiring minimal experience. A valid HR driver's licence and PTD authorisation are essential to get started.
The PTD, or passenger transport driver authorisation, is mandatory for drivers transporting passengers for hire or reward. Salary for bus drivers can vary significantly between companies, with some positions paying over AUD 80 per hour for night shifts.
Currently, there are many job vacancies across the nation. A job advertisement stated that drivers play a vital role in transporting passengers to various destinations, including villages, mine sites, and airports, while ensuring safety and reliability.
Typical shifts last 11 hours on a 2:1 roster (two weeks on, one week off). Besides driving, additional responsibilities may include basic maintenance and passenger assistance.
Jess Riches, who relocated from the UK and began a career in bus driving within the mining sector, shared her positive experiences on the job, though she warned of the intense summer heat. To secure her role, she obtained a White Card and completed her first aid training, along with a police check.
Riches advised aspiring drivers with no prior experience to undergo training at MIRO in Perth before submitting applications. The founder of W1N W1N Recruitment added that entering the FIFO (Fly In Fly Out) sector can be challenging without proper guidance.