Australian Train Driver Core Competencies – Become an Australian Train Driver

While it’s important to understand the selection process and the difference between the train companies, you probably won’t get far without knowing what they’re looking for in their candidates.

Here, we’ll be taking a look at the Australian train driver core competencies. We’ll start by introducing the concept of core competencies and why they’re important. Then, you’ll be provided with a guide to preparing for core competencies in the selection process. Finally, you’ll be treated to some sample train driver core competency questions and answers to aid your preparation.

What are Australian Train Driver Core Competencies?

During your application process for becoming a train driver, you might notice that Train Companies make reference to core values, qualities, or ‘competencies’ in their recruitment material. So, these are traits that train companies expect candidates to already possess. These qualities are essential for being a successful train driver.

Note: While we’ve referred to these traits as ‘core competencies’, different train companies will use their own terminology. So, here are some alternative phrases that may be used to describe the core competencies:

• Values;
• Characteristics;
• Traits;
• Qualities;
• Assessment criteria.

Differences Between Train Companies

There are significant differences between Australia’s train companies. This somewhat applies to competencies too, as train companies will have their own values at their core of their business practices. While there may be differences, you can expect most TOCs to hold similar competencies highly. Let’s take a look at a couple of examples:

The 5 core values of the Western Australia Public Transport Authority are:

• Respect;
• Recognition;
• Integrity;
• Safety;
• Sustainability.

These are, understandably, all important qualities for a train driver to have. So, since these are core values that the train company make clear from the very beginning of their recruitment material, you can expect to be asked about how you match them during your interview. So, this means that you’ll have to think of some examples in your professional life where you’ve achieved the core competencies.

However, there are even more competencies that the train company expects from drivers. Therefore, these include:

This is a lot to cover, but it’s still important to think of at least 2 or 3 examples for each of these essential characteristics.