Bus Driver Pay Rate 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for bus drivers in Australia under the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Bus Driver — Minimum Pay Rate
Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020 (MA000029)
$26.74
Base rate/hr
$33.43
Casual rate/hr
Bus drivers transport passengers on scheduled routes, school runs, and charter services. They operate buses safely, collect fares, and assist passengers.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Bus Driver
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $26.74/hr | $1,016.12 | $52,838.24 |
| Part-time (adult) | $26.74/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $33.43/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Bus Driver
Saturday
$40.11/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$53.48/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$66.85/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($26.74/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Bus driver — standard route | $26.74 | $33.43 | $52,838.24 |
| Grade 2 | Bus driver — charter / touring | $28.54 | $35.68 | $56,395.04 |
| Grade 3 | Senior driver / trainer | $29.71 | $37.14 | $58,706.96 |
View full Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Bus Driver?
Bus drivers frequently work split shifts and early starts. Common underpayment issues include not receiving proper split shift allowances and incorrect penalty rate calculations.
If you think you are being paid below the minimum rate, you can calculate your potential back pay and check your rights.
Check If You Are Underpaid →Bus Driver Pay Rates by State
Award pay rates are set nationally, but state-specific public holidays and long service leave rules may affect your total entitlements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bus driver get paid per hour in Australia?
The minimum hourly rate for a bus driver in Australia is $26.74/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $33.43/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020 (MA000029), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a bus driver?
The minimum wage for a bus driver is $26.74 per hour ($1,016.12 per week for a 38-hour week, or $52,838.24 per year). This is set by the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers bus drivers?
Bus Drivers are covered by the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020 (MA000029). This Modern Award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates, allowances, and leave entitlements. Your employer may also have an enterprise agreement with different (usually higher) rates.
Do bus drivers get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020, bus drivers receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($40.11/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($53.48/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($66.85/hr).
What is the casual rate for a bus driver?
The casual rate for a bus driver is $33.43/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $26.74/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old bus driver get paid?
Bus drivers must hold appropriate licences. Junior rates do not apply. The Passenger Vehicle Transportation Award 2020 does not have specific junior rates for this classification.
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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.
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