Twelve newly qualified Transport Authorised Officers are preparing to take up frontline roles across Western Sydney following their graduation from a new training and deployment program delivered by Transit Systems NSW, Transport for NSW and Wilson Security.
The officers were formally recognised at a graduation ceremony at Transit Systems’ Leichhardt Depot, marking an important milestone for the partnership and its customer focused approach to safety and compliance across the bus network.
Following extensive training, the new officers will work across Transit Systems NSW services in Sydney’s west and south west. They will provide a visible and approachable presence for passengers, support bus drivers and other frontline employees, check tickets and concession entitlements, and help address unsafe or antisocial behaviour.
The program combines Transit Systems’ operational knowledge with Wilson Security’s frontline safety expertise and Transport for NSW’s network-wide standards and authorisation requirements. Training has focused on customer service, communication, conflict de-escalation, fare compliance, incident response and the respectful exercise of authorised powers.
Transit Systems NSW Managing Director Rino Matarazzo said the graduation represented more than the completion of a training program, it would deliver an immediate benefit for passengers and employees across the network.
“This is a proud day for Transit Systems NSW and, most importantly, a positive step for the communities we serve,” Mr Matarazzo said. “Our 12 graduates have demonstrated dedication, sound judgement and a genuine commitment to treating every customer with dignity and respect.
“Authorised Officers play an important role in helping people feel safe and supported when travelling. Their presence also provides valuable support to our drivers, who are on the frontline keeping Sydney moving every day.
“This new model brings together the operational experience of Transit Systems, the specialist capabilities of Wilson Security and the oversight of Transport for NSW. It demonstrates what can be achieved when industry partners work together around a shared commitment to safer and more respectful public transport.”
Wilson Security State Manager NSW/ACT Darren Eurlings said "Public transport environments require a unique combination of professionalism, communication skills and sound judgement. Through this program, officers have been equipped to engage positively with customers, support frontline employees and respond confidently to challenging situations in a way that is respectful, fair and focused on community safety.
“We are proud to have worked alongside Transit Systems NSW and Transport for NSW to help prepare these officers for an important role across the network and we're excited to see the positive contribution they will make to passengers, drivers and the broader community."
Authorised Officers can check Opal and contactless payment methods, confirm concession entitlements and respond to offences including smoking or vaping, drinking alcohol, offensive behaviour, vandalism and interference with vehicles or equipment. Their work combines education and customer assistance with appropriate compliance action.
The 12 graduates will now be deployed across Transit Systems NSW’s Western Sydney operating network, strengthening the organisation’s commitment to safe, respectful and reliable journeys for passengers, employees and the wider community.
