Behind the Scenes: The Real Challenges of Becoming a Train Driver in Australia

Few professions spark as much debate as train drivers, with their average salary nearing £70,000 a year and the perception of a cushy job. But what does it really take to become a train driver, and why is there a shortage?

The Demand for Train Drivers

Driver shortages are a leading cause of disruption on the railways, with about seven out of eight cancellations due to missing drivers. The industry relies heavily on voluntary overtime, and with many drivers nearing retirement, the need for new recruits is urgent.

The Path to Becoming a Train Driver

The government has recently lowered the minimum age to 18 to attract younger candidates. However, the job demands exceptional concentration, diligence, and moral courage. Trainees start with a £26,000 salary, which can rise to £62,000 in three years, but the training is rigorous.

• Psychometric tests have a 60-70% failure rate.
• Trainees must pass a rulebook exam with a 90% score.
• 200 hours of driving under instruction are required before solo driving.

The entire process takes at least eight months, including classroom learning and simulator training.

The Reality of the Job

Train drivers often work early shifts starting at 3am and must live near a depot. The job requires carrying a hefty rulebook and maintaining zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol.

Diversity and Recruitment Challenges

The average entry age for train drivers is 34, which limits diversity, especially among women. The industry hopes to attract school leavers and career changers to fill the gap.

The Hurdles of the Job

Train driving is not as simple as it seems. Drivers must navigate high-speed travel, infrastructure reliance, and shift work, often in challenging conditions. The job also lacks adequate facilities, such as toilets, adding to the difficulties.

Shift work means early mornings and late nights, often in harsh weather. As one union leader put it, "When you’re walking down a siding at 3.20am in the rain, it’s not quite as pretty as rolling into a station in the sunlight."