Record Year for WA Bus Drivers Highlights Need for Industry Standards

Western Australia’s bus, train and ferry drivers have delivered a historic milestone, with public transport patronage reaching record levels in 2025.

According to reports from Australasian Bus and Coach News, boardings across the state have surpassed 150 million for the first time in WA history. This exceeds the previous record of 148.7 million set in 2013 and highlights the growing reliance on public transport across the state.

Behind every one of those journeys is a bus driver.

From early morning starts to late night routes, bus drivers play a critical role in keeping Western Australia moving. They are a vital part of the state’s transport system, connecting communities, supporting local economies and ensuring people can get safely from A to B.

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) would like to congratulate bus drivers across the state for their ongoing commitment and professionalism, particularly as demand for public transport continues to grow.

With fares reduced at the start of the year, passenger numbers are expected to increase even further, placing even greater pressure on drivers who are already operating at record capacity.

Figures show patronage has already increased by 16 per cent in March compared to the same time last year, reinforcing the essential role bus drivers play in the daily lives of West Australians.

TWU WA State Secretary Tim Dawson said the record figures were a testament to the dedication of drivers across the state.

“These results show that bus drivers are a vital part of the transport system that keeps Western Australia moving,” Dawson said.

“Every day, drivers are out there making sure people get to work, school and home safely. They are essential workers, and this milestone belongs to them.”

Dawson said the record-breaking numbers also highlighted the urgent need to lift standards across the industry.

“When more and more people are relying on buses, it’s more important than ever that drivers have fair pay, safe conditions and secure jobs,” he said.

“You cannot have a world-class public transport system without properly supporting the workers who keep it running.”

We are continuing to pursue our Road to Respect campaign, and we are pushing for same job, same pay for all drivers in the government contracted PTA service.

Read more about our Road to Respect campaign here: https://www.twuwa.org.au/road-to-respect-wa