For more than 100 years, Ventura Bus Lines has connected communities across Victoria, helping people get to work, school, healthcare, and home safely every day. Today, that commitment extends beyond transport – it includes creating a workplace where women can thrive, lead, and shape the future of public transport.
Breaking Barriers in Public Transport
The transport industry has traditionally been male-dominated, but Ventura is helping change that narrative.
Women across Ventura are taking the wheel as drivers, mechanics, operational leaders, customer service professionals, apprentices, and executives – helping create a workforce that better reflects the diverse communities Ventura serves across Melbourne.
As part of this commitment, Ventura host Women at the Wheel Employment Open Day – the first initiative of its kind in the bus industry. Designed to encourage more women to explore careers in public transport, the event has become a major success and has contributed to Ventura achieving its highest rate of female employment to date.
In 2025 alone, Ventura welcomed 80 new female employees across the business, representing significant progress in workforce diversity and inclusion.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Following the success of the original program, Ventura now hosts multiple Women at the Wheel events each year. These events provide women with the opportunity to:
- Learn about careers in transport
- Meet experienced female drivers and leaders
- Explore flexible career pathways
- Gain confidence in entering a new industry
- Experience Ventura’s supportive workplace culture firsthand
The events have become known for being inspiring, welcoming, and empowering – helping break down barriers and encourage more women to consider long-term careers in public transport.
Creating Opportunities for Women
Ventura is committed to increasing opportunities for women at every stage of their career journey. From recruitment through to leadership development, the organisation focuses on creating pathways that support long-term success.
This includes:
- Flexible employment opportunities
- Paid training and development
- Safe and inclusive workplaces
- Leadership and career progression pathways
- A culture built on respect, teamwork, and belonging
By investing in people, Ventura is helping build a workforce that is skilled, confident, and representative of the Victorian community.
Building a Stronger Future for Transport
Diversity plays an important role in delivering safe, reliable, and customer-focused public transport services.
Women at Ventura continue to help shape the future of the industry through leadership, operational excellence, and community connection. Their contribution supports stronger teams, better decision-making, and more inclusive outcomes for passengers and employees alike.
As Ventura continues to grow, the organisation remains committed to creating opportunities for women and building a workplace where everyone can succeed.
Learn more: https://youtu.be/e8GbVYRAFdc
