Media Release: Torrens Transit 5/2/2026
From burnout to the driver’s seat – women take the wheel!
Transit Systems, operating locally in South Australia as Torrens Transit, is proud to share the story of Kate, a former support worker who traded the unpredictability of casual shifts for a stable, rewarding career behind the wheel.
Torrens Transit Managing Director Andrew Jenkinson said they were proud to support more women in the workforce, providing a stable pathway for those looking beyond traditional sectors.
A journey from instability to impact
For Kate, the transition was driven by a need for a brighter future. Working in mental health and disability support, she faced burnout and financial stress. With plans to start a family, the “gig economy” simply wasn’t enough.
Encouraged by her brother, already a driver for Torrens Transit, Kate connected with WomenCAN Australia. Funded through the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities Activity by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, the organisation provided the advocacy and support she needed to bridge the gap into a new industry.
“Knowing I wasn’t alone made all the difference. The financial stability has been huge. We’re not counting every penny anymore,” she said.
WomenCAN Australia CEO Heather Saunders adds, “When women are given the opportunity, support and encouragement to step into roles where they’ve traditionally been underrepresented, the impact is transformative — not just for the women themselves, but for entire industries. Our partnership with Torrens Transit shows what’s possible when organisations work together to remove barriers, build confidence and open doors. Together, we’re changing the narrative around who belongs behind the wheel and proving that women like Kate can thrive as bus drivers and leaders in transport.”
Breaking barriers on the road
The transition to bus driving was designed to be supportive from day one. After an intensive two-week classroom induction, Kate found her stride through hands-on training and a culture of mentorship.
- Mentorship: “Buddy drivers” and veteran staff provided a welcoming environment for Kate to hone her skills.
- Flexibility: Kate now balances community bus routes with a weekly school service, providing the consistent hours she needs while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
- Legacy: Kate’s move into transport honours her late mother’s belief that “women can do anything men can – and probably better!”
Mr Jenkinson said that Torrens Transit is committed to diversifying its workforce and invites women from all professional backgrounds to consider a career in transport.
“In Kate’s case, she was looking for regular work and income to build a young family around, but we also see parents who have done the years being the family taxi – they know the community, they know the roads, they know how to handle various passengers – they already have the great skills we need.
“With comprehensive training and a community-focused culture, being a professional driver is a reliable, stable and rewarding career choice,” he said.
“Don’t be afraid,” Kate says. “This industry is changing, and women belong here. Honestly – just do it.”
ABOUT TRANSIT SYSTEMS
Transit Systems is part of Kelsian Group (Kelsian), a leading global operator of bus, motorcoach, and marine services, trusted by governments and private clients to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable passenger transport solutions.
With over 30 years of experience, Kelsian connects people and places across complex urban and regional networks in Australia, Singapore, the USA, the UK, and the Channel Islands.
Their businesses include Transit Systems – one of Australia’s largest public bus operators, All Aboard America! Holdings, Inc. (AAAHI) – the second-largest motorcoach operator in the USA; SeaLink – Australia’s leading marine transport provider, and Tower Transit – spearheading bus franchising in the UK, Channel Islands and Singapore.
As a leader in low and zero-emission transport, Kelsian is helping shape the future of sustainable mobility.
As at 30 June 2025, Kelsian directly employs over 12,800 people and operates over 5,870 buses, 124 vessels and 24 light rail vehicles that delivered more than 383 million customer journeys over the last year.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Media contact: Katie Wilke Square One PR 📧 katie.wilke@squareonepr.com.au 📱0411 771 469
