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.
Partnering with WomenCAN Australia, Torrens Transit is actively dismantling the stereotype that the transport industry is a "men-only" club, offering a pathway for women to gain accreditation, confidence, and long-term career stability.
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."
Media contact: Katie Wilke Square One PR 📧 katie.wilke@squareonepr.com.au 📱0411 771 469
ABOUT WOMENCAN AUSTRALIA
WomenCAN Australia empowers women to build lasting financial independence through education, training and meaningful employment. Working alongside community, we reimagine traditional pathways and help create inclusive local economies—so every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
More than a placement service, we partner closely with employers to match women to opportunities in emerging and essential industries. Our approach embeds peer support, fosters inclusion, and cultivates a culture of belonging—ensuring women are supported not just to enter work, but to succeed in it.
Through our unique peer support model, delivered in collaboration with TAFEs, Registered Training Organisations and employers, we connect women with training, skills and real career pathways. Together, we provide the scaffolding women need to stride confidently toward financial independence.
WomenCAN Australia currently supports women entering careers in Aged Care, Early Childhood Education and Transport, with more industries to come.
Learn more at womencanaustralia.org
Media contact: Heather Saunders, CEO, WomenCAN Australia 📧 heather.saunders@womencanaustralia.org📱0434 805 600
