Transport & Logistics
Tram Driver
Tram drivers transport people on a fixed tram network between various places, including work or school.
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Entry-level education
Junior secondary school certificate or equivalent
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Job outlook
What does a Tram Driver do?
Tram drivers transport people between various places, including work or school. Trams operate on fixed tracks, on a fixed route network and to a regular schedule. New tram networks are now more commonly known as light rail.
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Work activities
As a tram driver, your duties would include:
- make equipment checks at the start of a shift
- drive the tram along set routes, according to set timetables
- stop at designated locations to pick up or set down passengers
- control lighting, heating and ventilation on trams
- keep in contact with the control room for up-to-date information
- answer queries from passengers about destinations
- make passenger announcements.
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Key skills and interests
To become a tram driver, you would need:
- good driving skills
- current and valid drivers' licence
- clear spoken communication skills
- good physical and mental fitness
- a responsible attitude
- to be conscious of health and safety regulations.
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Working hours and conditions
Working Hours
You would usually work a standard number of hours per week, in shifts that would include nights, weekends and public holidays. Most tram services start early in the morning and run until late at night. Part-time or flexible hours may be available.
Conditions
You would be provided with a uniform, and you may need to wear a high visibility vest when working at the tram depot.
Tram drivers are employed in the public sector by government transport authorities, or by private operators with contracts to run government services. Trams and light rail services operate in some, but not all, Australian states. The world’s largest tram network is in Melbourne. Additional light rail infrastructure is currently being constructed in Sydney.
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How to become an Tram Driver?
Entry Level Education
To become a tram driver you must undergo a selection process, including an interview, a medical assessment, and personality, aptitude and ability tests.
You will need a current drivers’ licence, a National Police Check and a driving history report.
Requirements will vary from State to State. You would receive on-the-job driver training, the duration of which depends on previously held licences and experience.
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Job outlook
Employment for tram drivers will be directly limited by the building or dismantling of tram or light rail networks.
The world’s largest tram network is in Melbourne. An expanded light rail network is currently planned for Sydney, with services to commence in 2019.
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