The celebration coincided with Work180’s announcement of their Top 101 Employers of Women [paywall], recognising Transdev as one of the organisations leading the way in creating inclusive workplaces.

Brian Brennan, CEO, addressed attendees on the progress of the GEAP.

“Equity is not simply a target on paper,” Mr Brennan said. “It’s about creating an environment where every Journey Maker has the opportunity, support and recognition they deserve. The focus this year is on tangible actions that make a real difference across the business.”

“Equity is not simply a target on paper. It’s about creating an environment where every Journey Maker has the opportunity, support and recognition they deserve. The focus this year is on tangible actions that make a real difference across the business.”

Brian Brennan, CEO Transdev Australia & New Zealand

Mr Brennan highlighted achievements including:

  • Gender pay gap improvements, with WGEA reporting a gap of -1.4%.
  • Strengthened support networks, growing the ‘Women on the Move’ network which supports advocacy and connection between female Journey Makers.
    Initiatives supporting more targeted recruitment, including an all-female Open Day at Transdev’s Sydney Ferries operations.
  • The continued success of the Elevate Female Leadership Program, producing 23 graduates thus far.
  • Expanded leadership pathways, developing a new Emerging Leaders Program which further develops existing talent pathways for women within the business.

The event also provided an opportunity for Journey Makers to reflect on the UN theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,”, and consider how everyone can contribute to a fairer, more inclusive workplace.

“Progress requires commitment from everyone,” Mr Brennan added. “From leadership to teams across the business, each Journey Maker has a role in building a workplace that embodies these principles. Together, equality becomes more than an aspiration – it becomes part of the Transdev culture.”

The day included words from Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP, Member for Coogee and Parliamentary Secretary for Transport; and a cast of Journey Makers from transport operations throughout the region, all of whom reaffirmed the importance of continued efforts toward inclusivity.

For more information, see how Transdev has marked International Women’s Day in previous years, review our Publications page or learn more at the Work180 website.

In 2025, the Elevate Female Leadership Program welcomed a talented cohort of female leaders from across Transdev Australia and New Zealand. Designed to build leadership capability and expand influence, the program has supported participants to take confident steps forward in their careers.

We caught up with three graduates from last year’s Program, whose growth, achievements and ongoing contributions demonstrate what’s possible when women are given the tools and support to lead.

Shayna Fraticelli, who commenced the program as Head of Remuneration & Benefits, reflects on the experience:

“The program gave me the confidence to back myself and my capabilities. It allowed me to become truly comfortable with my unique leadership style and reinforced that I was appointed to my role for my thinking.”

Since completing the program, she’s taken on a broader remit as Head of HR Governance & Systems requiring her to work more frequently with businesses across Transdev’s international footprint. Shayna added that being recognised Transdev Australia & New Zealand annual employee recognition awards as Journey Maker of the Year was a milestone of which she was particularly proud.

Monika Rudolf, Head of Performance & Reporting, describes the biggest shift being in how she sees herself, now recognising the strategic value and influence she brings.

“The program reshaped how I approach leadership. I now see my role extending well beyond metrics and dashboards – focusing on driving strategy, aligning teams and empowering them to reach their full potential,” she said.

Rebuilding her career in Australia from the ground up after emigrating from Hungary remains a deeply personal achievement that continues to shape her compassionate leadership style.

Anita Panchal, Operations Centre Manager, credits the program with strengthening her strategic focus and leadership presence.

“It shifted my mindset from managing tasks to influencing outcomes, giving me the confidence to step forward in moments that require decisive leadership,” she said.

Since graduating, Anita has transitioned into her current operational leadership role, broadening her perspective across the wider service environment. Delivering her final presentation to senior leaders was a defining moment in the Program that transformed her confidence and reinforced her belief in her capability.

“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation”

Monika Rudolf, Head of Performance & Reporting

Asked what advice they would give other professionals considering embarking on a development program like Elevate, Shayna said: “There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach, so shape it in a way that suits you – it’s your leadership journey!”

“Programs like this create space to step back from day-to-day delivery and invest in your leadership identity, how you influence, lead and the impact you want to create,” said Monika.

“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation.”

Anita encouraged an open mind and readiness to be surprised by how the experience might change you.

“Be ready to challenge yourself, embrace new perspectives and reflect on your growth,” she said.

“The connections you’ll make, experience you’ll gain and personal transformation you’ll undergo make it an incredibly rewarding experience.

“Most importantly, enjoy the journey and have fun!”

“For this year’s Sydney Lunar New Year Festival, we’ve wrapped an entire tram in my artwork, ‘We Run Into the Fire Together’,” said Mr Wing.

“My artwork features lots of dynamic horses created out of fire embers, represented in colours that are prosperous for both Chinese and Aboriginal cultures,” he said.

The artwork reflects the energy and symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse, a rare zodiac combination occurring once every 60 years which represents vitality, transformation and forward momentum.

Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer of Transdev Australia & New Zealand, joined partners from the City of Sydney, Transport for NSW, Sydney Light Rail’s media partner Torch Media and the artist himself as the wrapped tram debuted on the network earlier this month.

Mr Brennan said the artwork reflects the shared spirit of Lunar New Year and the important role public transport plays in connecting communities.

The horse is a timeless symbol of people moving people, a purpose that Transdev lives every day as we move more than 12 million passengers worldwide.

Brian Brennan

“Given the transformative impact that light rail has had on Sydney, it’s fitting that we build on our ongoing partnership with City of Sydney and Transport for NSW during an event that is so much part of the fabric of this city.

“We believe we’re as much a transport solution as we are an active contributor to city life, placemaking and cultural celebration.

“We’re very proud to support initiatives like this, which bring the vibrant art, culture and community of Sydney into everyday journeys.”

The wrapped tram will be cantering on the L2 Randwick and L3 Juniors Kingsford Lines throughout the Lunar New Year festival, running 14 February through 1 March.

Sydney Light Rail services will provide easy access to the many Sydney Lunar Festival events occurring across Haymarket, Chinatown, Darling Harbour and George Street. Passengers are encouraged to turn up and go, experiencing this moving artwork as part of their celebrations.

For more information about Sydney Lunar Festival events, visit the City of Sydney’s What’s On page.

To acknowledge Transgender Day of Remembrance and celebrate Transdev Awareness week, we’re proud to share the Journey of Sydney Ferries Inner Harbour Engineer, Max (he/him), pictured on the left.

 

What does being trans mean to you, in your own words?

For me, being trans means being authentically me. I know that’s a phrase that is often heard around being transgender or non-binary, but for me that means that I now feel seen and validated in a way I never felt before transitioning.  There’s a power in being seen, but even moreso in seeing yourself clearly.

 

What has your journey of self-discovery looked like?

It was a long road with a lot of introspection and discovery. I was socially transitioning with friends and family for a long time, for a myriad of reasons, before starting medical transition while working at Transdev Sydney Ferries. I was unsure and honestly a little apprehensive at how my transition at work would be received at first, as there were no other trans people at work that I knew. However my colleagues have been so supportive and genuinely respectful and I feel privileged to share this personal growth with them. 

Are there key moments or experiences that helped you better understand your identity?

Becoming involved in the LGBTQ community at university was when I first met someone who was trans and that started my journey of self-discovery as I previously didn’t realise transitioning was even an option. Being surrounded by supportive people allowed me to explore my own identity and to grow into it in a safe space.

What has been the most empowering part of your journey?

The sense of alignment and wholeness transitioning has given me. The ability to embrace feminine and masculine traits in my personality which I never truly felt comfortable with before and finally believing I deserved to live as myself, not according to someone else’s expectation.

What are some aspects of the everyday reality of the trans community?

Trans people face higher rates of discrimination, violence and mental health challenges often due to lack of acceptance and common myths and misconceptions which can be amplified in today’s social media-driven society. Having a supportive and inclusive workplace and colleagues can help to alleviate some of the alienation trans people experience in the broader community.

What actions or behaviours from colleagues or leaders have made you feel supported?

People really making an effort to use the correct pronouns and the open conversations I had with a lot of my colleagues who had genuine questions about my transition and identity, most of whom had never met anyone who is transgender before. I also found being open allowed other people who had family or friends who were questioning gender identity or going through transition to feel comfortable enough to approach me for advice. It felt great to be able to support others who had supported me. That is what inclusion feels like to me.

What workplace adjustments or initiatives have made a positive difference for you?

 Being part of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee and now the Pride Network has really made me feel more connected to help educate and empower others.

What are some simple everyday actions colleagues can take to be better allies?

Be proactive and research, it can be taxing for trans people to be an educator all the time. There is a lot of great information and trans content creators that you can use to find answers. Normalise language (see below).

What language or behaviours help you feel respected and seen?

Language is one of the most powerful tools for allyship, using the correct name and pronouns and avoiding assumptions about someone’s gender can reduce harm, improve mental health and affirm identity for that person. If you’re not sure of someone’s gender identity, it’s better to politely ask than to assume, or you could introduce yourself stating your own pronoun preferences to start the conversation. It’s also OK if you make a mistake. We get it and it takes time to adjust.

How can workplaces create more affirming environments for trans employees?

To inspire, humanise and build understanding.

What message would you like to share with other trans people who may still be navigating their own journey?

That there is no one way of being trans. There’s a lot of diversity within the trans community and all identities are valid.

What message would you share with leaders or workplaces during Trans Awareness Week?

Encourage small steps and simple actions to strengthen inclusion like correct name and pronoun use. Practice using inclusive language and speaking up when something isn’t right. Small everyday choices make a big difference.

 

We’d like to thank Max for kindly sharing his story with us.

At Transdev we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful workplace where all Journey Makers are treated with dignity and can bring their whole selves to work.

If you’d like to learn more about Transgender Day of Remembrance (20 Nov) or Transgender Awareness Week (13 Nov – 19 Nov), click here.

The annual staff awards shine a light on exceptional individuals and teams driving the operator of public transport forward, with winners in nine categories hand-picked from over 500 nominations submitted by their peers throughout the year.

Held since 2012, the Awards bring together individuals for a night of celebration, good food and fun. Because Transdev’s operations in the regions span from Perth to Wellington, the evening marks the first time many attendees from the frontline meet each other.

Every nomination tells a story of commitment and passion.

Brian Brennan

“It’s inspiring to see so many Journey Makers going above and beyond to support our teams, our networks and our communities,” said Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer for Transdev Australia & New Zealand.

“Every nomination tells a story of commitment and passion. It’s great to have nights like this, which provide us a chance to celebrate their extraordinary contributions.”

“I want to congratulate not only all the winners and finalists but also everyone who took the time to nominate a colleague for an Award. You’re the beating heart of Transdev, and it’s camaraderie like this that allows us to provide over 270 million trips for customers each year.”

Read more about this year’s award winners, and see some more images from the evening, below.

Juhandi Susanto,
Transdev John Holland Bus

Juhandi has set an exceptional standard through his commitment to eco-driving and operational excellence. His smooth driving techniques reduce fuel use and emissions while enhancing the customer experience. Calm under pressure and consistently dependable, Juhandi exemplifies how small, thoughtful actions can deliver meaningful sustainability outcomes.

Finalists

  • Jessica Howley – Transdev Western Australia Bus

  • Isaac Bwel Say – Transdev John Holland Buses

Karthik Pasnoor,
Transdev WA Bus

Karthik demonstrated extraordinary courage and compassion when he provided life-saving First Aid to a pedestrian struck by a vehicle in front of his bus. He calmly stabilised the injured person, coordinated with emergency services and, without seeking any recognition, quietly completed his route. His actions reflect exceptional professionalism and humanity.

Finalists

  • Gary Lam – Transdev Sydney Light Rail

  • Jackson Harris – Transdev John Holland Buses

Bill Palmer,
Transdev Wellington

Bill transformed antisocial behaviour at Paraparaumu Station by creating a community group that provides local youth with mentorship, activities and a positive outlet. His dedication has improved safety, strengthened trust in public transport and changed lives — all driven by initiative, empathy and commitment.

Finalists

  • Merike Viigisalu – Transdev Sydney Ferries

  • Samantha Carlson – Yarra Trams

Job Wang,
Howick & Eastern Buses


Job is known for his exceptional reliability, calm leadership and ability to lift standards across multiple areas of the business. He works across safety, performance, charters and customer engagement without missing a beat, earning deep trust from colleagues who say everything runs better with Job involved.

Finalists

  • Katrina Wild – Transdev Australia & New Zealand

  • Lana Bright – Transdev Sydney Ferries

Suzanne Lewis,
Transdev Queensland

Suzanne has supported, coached and mentored countless new drivers, helping them build confidence and develop the skills needed for safe, high-quality service. Her peers describe her as “one of a kind” for her kindness, experience and steady support.

Finalists

  • Niju Johnny – Transdev Queensland

  • Tony King – Transdev Wellington

Clarissa Sparnenn,
Yarra Trams

Clarissa has demonstrated exceptional commitment to development and excellence. Known for her kindness, professionalism and drive, she pursued mentoring and formal safety training, culminating in a promotion to Safety Trainee. Her dedication to improving the network and supporting colleagues makes her an outstanding high achiever.

Finalists

  • Anthony Frey – Transdev Sydney Light Rail

  • Christopher Marriott – Transdev Western Australia Bus

Erica Stander,
Mana Newlands Coaches

Erica embodies the essence of brilliant basics through her commitment to safety, operational excellence and unwavering support for her team. Her leadership, work ethic and dedication to customers and colleagues set an exceptional standard across our operations.

Shayna Fraticelli,
Transdev Australia & New Zealand

Shayna has made a lasting impact on the organisation through her leadership in remuneration and benefits, expanding support for employees and improving transparency across the business. Her work consistently improves how we engage, retain and empower our people.

Transdev John Holland Buses


The 2025 Team of the Year transformed their client relationship, delivered top-tier on-time performance for six consecutive months and drove improvements across their network through partnership, accountability and grit. Their commitment to excellence and collaborative approach made them stand-out performers across the region.

See more images from our 2025 Journey Maker Awards

This year’s forum focused on collision prevention and the role leadership plays in influencing operational outcomes.

Through expert presentations and panel discussions, attendees explored the latest research, shared operational insights and discussed practical people-centric strategies to improve safety outcomes across light rail networks.

Amanda Tarbotton, General Manager Safety and Assurance for Transdev at Sydney and Parramatta Light Rail, spoke about risk acceptance and finding a path towards zero. 

“We need to move towards a vision zero mindset,” she said. “The challenge is to do something different, but the question for us today is what does different look like?

“There can be millimetres of difference between a near miss and actual collision.

“Behind every statistic is a person with family and friends. Safety isn’t a technical target; it’s a leadership decision.”

There can be millimetres of difference between a near miss and actual collision.

Amanda Tarbotton
Close-up of the panel session at the Transdev Sydney Light Rail Public Safety Forum in 2025, panel featuring five speakers, including tram and bus representatives in conversation about leadership and safety culture.
Wide shot of the conference room showing a panel of five speakers on stage discussing safety initiatives while attendees watch from tables in the foreground.

Robert Wentzel, Managing Director of The Jonah Group, shared insights on the role of leadership in shifting the “blame” mindset.

Ian Hopkins, Head of Network Development at Yarra Trams reflected on learnings from Melbourne’s network, 74% of which is shared with other road users.

The above keynote speakers then joined in a panel, alongside Sydney Light Rail driver Aman Bajwa and Bob Parton, Managing Director of Transdev WA, for a discussion about strategies to reduce collisions on our networks, facilitated by Arsene Durand Raucher, Managing Director of Transdev Sydney Light Rail and Parramatta Light Rail.

The annual event reflects Transdev’s ongoing commitment to making light rail safer for everyone, through collaboration, innovation and listening to the communities the business serves.

Transdev’s bus operations in Queensland partnered with Night Ninjas to host a pancake breakfast at Redlands Bay Marina, engaging with local school students and commuters. Journey Makers later joined each other at a pizza drop-in session, with conversation-starting shirts from TradeMutt encouraging meaningful check-ins.

At Transdev John Holland Buses in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Mental Health First Aiders visited depots with R U OK? Day cupcakes, reinforcing how small moments can create space for important conversations.

Meanwhile at Transdev Sydney Ferries, Senior Leaders joined the team at Balmain Shipyard, donning R U OK? shirts and handing out themed KitKats to remind everyone that even light-hearted gestures can open the door to deeper connections.

Huw Bridges, Chief Safety & Assurance Officer said: “Whether breakfast with the community or conversations at our depots and shipyards, it’s great to see Journey Makers mark this day by stopping and asking a simple yet powerful question.”

Mr Bridges thanked everyone who helped bring the day to life and encouraged all participants to carry forward the spirit of R U OK? Day: “because every day is an opportunity to check in and connect”.

Special guests Daisy Catterall and Ben Parangi of Twenty10, a prominent not-for-profit LGBTIQA+ advocacy group, were joined by Arsene Durand Raucher, Managing Director of Transdev Sydney & Parramatta Light Rail and Bronwyn Courts, a Senior Manager at Transport for NSW, for a special fireside chat.

Led by Huw Bridges, Transdev’s Executive Sponsor for Inclusion and Chief Safety & Assurance Officer, participants shared their lived experiences as parents and allies of LGBTQIA+ youth, offering insights into supporting young people to be their authentic selves.

“Events like this are an important part of the larger program of work we’re undertaking to ensure the safety, inclusion and empowerment of LGBTIQA+ persons,” said Mr Bridges.

I had to reject the concept of gender and identity as fixed. It's about meeting your children where they're at, having an ongoing conversation with them, and understanding them rather than attaching labels.

Bronwyn Courts

“We’re committed to lifting our Australian Workplace Equality Index rating to Silver and have recently achieved the Rainbow Tick in New Zealand for the first time.

“I’d also like to highlight the work of our Pride Working Group, a network of employees who are championing initiatives like the ones I mentioned, shaping policy and ensuring LGBTIQA+ voices are heard in decision-making.”

Mr Bridges thanked the speakers and employees that joined him for the day, noting that Transdev’s workforce of greater than 8,000 means that initiatives like Wear It Purple Day to drive inclusion can have an outsized impact on communities.

This year’s NAIDOC Week theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, inspired our teams across Australia to come together in celebration, reflection and recognition.

Our Journey Makers marked the week by honouring the leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and celebrating the aspirations of future generations.

In Sydney on Gadigal Country, Transdev Sydney Ferries, brought teams together to participate in a smoking ceremony, performances by our very own Journey Makers and hear from local Elders about the significance of Country and culture.

Transdev John Holland Buses kicked off NAIDOC Week by unveiling a new artwork by talented local First Nation Artist, Billy Reynolds, reinforcing the importance of celebrating the talents of the next generation.

Meanwhile, our Yarra Journey Makers welcomed Stacie Piper, a proud Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung and Ngurai Illum Wurrung woman who held a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony as the team took a moment to reflect, learn and connect with Country.

Our other modes celebrated locally, creating space for conversation and connection – from team BBQs to cultural quizzes – that encouraged Journey Makers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of First Nations cultures in meaningful, everyday ways.

From on-the-ground ceremonies to internal conversations, NAIDOC Week gave our Journey Makers a moment to pause, engage and look ahead – walking alongside community in support of a more inclusive future.

We thank all those who helped bring these events to life and encourage everyone to carry forward the spirit of this year’s theme celebrating the strength, vision and legacy of the next generation.

Transdev Queensland to remain operators of bus services in Redlands and Southeast until 2027.

Transdev will continue to operate bus services in the Redlands and Southeast Queensland to 2027 following a decision by Translink, part of the Department of Transport & Main Roads. 

The two-year extension reflects Transdev’s consistent delivery of safe, reliable and customer focused transport, as well as the strong relationship formed between Translink and the Redlands community over the course of the contract.  

Mark Thatcher, Managing Director of Transdev Queensland, welcomed the announcement.  

“This is a strong endorsement of the hard work and professionalism of our Journey Makers here at Transdev Queensland,” he said.  

“From our drivers and mechanics through to operations, network planning and administration, every team member plays a vital role in delivering reliable services to our customers and community. 

“We’re proud to continue supporting the Redlands and building upon the productive partnership we’re fortunate to have with our colleagues at Translink.” 

Head of Translink, Dr Deborah Hume said: 

“We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Transdev, who’ve demonstrated their commitment to safety, service quality and strong community engagement.”  

Transdev has operated in Queensland since 2004 and today operates 122 buses across 127 routes in Queensland, employing more than 300 locals.  

What began as a small show of solidarity has grown into something deeply meaningful for Transdev’s light rail team and the wider community. 

Now in its fifth year, the team’s involvement in the Vinnies CEO Sleepout has helped raise more than $100,000.

But behind the impressive numbers is a story of heart, hope and one remarkable light rail driver whose legacy continues to inspire.

Mel was a cherished member of the Sydney Light Rail team, always ready to help, champion a cause, or brighten someone’s day. Tragically, she lost her life in a motorbike accident five years ago. 

That same year, the Sydney Light Rail team raised funds to send their Managing Director, Arsene Durand-Raucher, to attend the Vinnies CEO Sleepout for the very first time. 

In doing so, Arsene wanted to honour Mel and the generosity and kindness of the many other light rail Journey Makers who quietly do what they can to support Australians experiencing homelessness every day.

Now in his fifth year sleeping out, Arsene said each year brings a new perspective:

“Our participation now feels like second nature, but each year the campaign reinforces our connection to the community we serve, and reminds us that compassion, connection and consistency matter.”

We’re proud that our efforts continue to honour Mel’s spirit and even prouder to be part of a team that never gives up on helping others, on or off the tracks.

Transdev recognised this year’s National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) with a renewed focus on respect, cultural learning and visual storytelling, alongside a range of events across our business.

This year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next”, invites all Australians to reflect on our shared history and look ahead together with courage and commitment.

CEO Brian Brennan said that for Transdev, reconciliation is an ongoing journey embedded in how we work and who we partner with.

“This year’s theme speaks directly to the kind of organisation we strive to be – one that listens, learns and leads with purpose,” Mr Brennan said.

“We are committed to walking this path with First Nations Peoples in meaningful and practical ways.”

As part of our ongoing Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we’ve continued to grow opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through employment, partnerships and social procurement initiatives.

At our Pitt Street office in Sydney, Transdev hosted a company-wide event, featuring:

  • Reflections from our RAP Working Group Leaders;
  • The unveiling of a new artwork by proud Biripi woman Vicki Golding; and
  • Discussion of our progress under our current Innovate RAP.

To support all Journey Makers in engaging respectfully with culture, Transdev also launched a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Protocols guide – a practical resource to support culturally appropriate engagement with First Nations communities.

Beyond the office, Journey Makers across the country took part in a wide range of cultural events, including:

  • Our CEO, Brian Brennan attended a yarning circle with Babana Men’s Group;
  • Our Chief Financial Officer, Alexia Gontier and Chief Legal & Commercial Officer, Nathan Lanthois attended a Bunjil Creation Dance Ceremony in Melbourne;
  • Our Chief People Officer, Dimity Smith will be attending a Boardroom Lunch with the Chairperson of the NSW Indigenous Chamber of Commerce; and
  • A number of Journey Makers joined a Warrang-Sydney Reconciliation Walk.

These moments of connection and learning reflect our people’s shared commitment to reconciliation in action.

“It’s not just what we say during National Reconciliation Week – it’s what we do afterwards that counts,” Mr Brennan said.

“We want all our teams to feel equipped and empowered to keep the momentum going well beyond this week.”

For more information about National Reconciliation Week, visit the Reconciliation Australia website.
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