Truck drivers know the highways, the tough days and how to keep heavy vehicles moving safely. So why not take those skills somewhere unexpected – behind the wheel of a bus and help connect people and communities all over Australia.
Kinetic is Australasia’s largest bus operator and is actively recruiting skilled drivers across the country. With operations in cities, regional towns, and remote communities, Kinetic offers diverse and rewarding career paths, from urban routes to regional services and essential transport for students and mine workers.
Tyneal Tumata joined Kinetic in December and is now a coach captain in Queensland. A love of driving has seen Tyneal take on both buses and trucks in the past, but what stands out about the current role is the sense of support and structure.
“With trucks, you’re the mechanic and the driver – you have to be 100 per cent committed to your vehicle. But when it comes to buses, you have a whole team behind you ensuring the safety of you and your passengers,” Tyneal said.
“The team I work with is one of the biggest positives of the role, they make me feel like I’m part of a family.”
For former truck drivers, transitioning to a bus driver role is simple. With an existing heavy vehicle licence, all that’s needed is to apply and undergo an assessment.
Raewyn Meaker started at Kinetic as an urban bus driver and now operates specialised bus services supporting the Bowen Basin’s mining sector.
“Before Kinetic, I worked in logistics administration and previously drove trucks in Brisbane. But my ultimate goal was to move into the resources sector, and now I’m here.”
She values the opportunity to explore Australia’s remote landscapes.
“I love that this job lets me see parts of the country I wouldn’t otherwise, especially the wide-open spaces of the Bowen Basin.”
Raewyn values Kinetic’s commitment to training, supporting women in transport, and striving for gender balance in its workforce by 2030.
“I initially applied for Kinetic’s Women Up Front – Trainee Bus Driver Program, but with my driving experience, they fast-tracked me to become a coach captain,” she said.
“It’s a really great industry – I’ve had so much support right from the start.”
Erika Nehez loves driving and being on the road, and that’s what led her to become a bus driver with Kinetic.
“I get to see an amazing countryside, I get to meet and work with great people. Plus the hours are flexible, whether balancing parenting, studying, or other commitments, there’s plenty of room in the roster to make it work.”
For Erika the transition from truck driving to bus driving makes sense.
“During my training I met people who had come from truck driving. They have such great awareness for the vehicle and moving it around the roads. They make really good bus drivers.”
Beyond the job itself, Kinetic is leading the way in sustainable transport, and is committed to having 100 per cent zero emission vehicles across its urban operations by 2035. The company currently operates the biggest electric bus network across Australia and New Zealand.
For drivers like Tyneal, that’s a major draw.
“I’m glad to see electric buses being introduced across Kinetic, I think it’s a positive way for transport to move forward, especially on urban routes.”
For truck drivers considering a new direction, bus driving with Kinetic offers stability, flexibility, and the chance to be part of something bigger. Whether you’re looking for a change of pace, a role that works around your lifestyle, or a chance to explore new parts of the country, there’s never been a better time to make the move.
If you’re ready for a new road to travel, Kinetic is ready for you. For more information, visit wearekinetic.com/our-company/join-our-team.