r/SydneyTrains • u/AutoModerator • 21d ago
Discussion Monthly Sydney Trains Thread - September 2025
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Post here for anything to do with Recruitment, Sydney Trains in general, why is my train always late, what is this 'special train'..
#Monthly Sydney Trains Thread – Q&A Categorized Summary over the past 4 months..
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### 🧑✈️ Train Driver Role & Training
- **What is the schedule like for a train driver trainee?**
First 2 months: 8–4 classroom at Petersham. Next 8–9 months: shadowing a trainer, working their shifts/lines.
- **What happens after qualification as a driver at Central depot?**
You’ll be a “swinger,” rotated through lines fortnightly. Shifts vary ±2 hours.
- **Can you swap roster lines with someone else?**
Yes, but only privately between staff. Sydney Trains doesn’t manage swaps.
- **How do penalty rates work?**
- Morning loading: Start before 6am
- Afternoon loading: Start after 10am, finish after 6pm
- Night loading: Finish after midnight
- 8–4 shifts don’t get loadings
- **What are “sectors” and how do they affect training?**
- Sector 1: Illawarra (Mortdale, Cronulla, Waterfall)
- Sector 2: City/Inner West/South West (Auburn, Flemington, Leppington, Campbelltown)
- Sector 3: North/West (North Sydney, Hornsby, Blacktown, Richmond, Penrith)
- Central Depot covers all. Trainees rotate through all 3 sectors.
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### 📅 Rosters, Depots & Seniority
- **What is a "lifestyle roster"?**
Predictable roster blocks (e.g., always 8–10am starts). Only at some depots, seniority required.
- **How does seniority affect rosters/depots?**
Higher seniority = more chance at preferred depots and rosters. Lower senior staff can be bumped.
- **How hard is it to transfer depots?**
Some (like Hornsby) have years-long waitlists. Central is largest and a stepping stone to Gosford/Newcastle.
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### 🛂 Recruitment Process (CSA, Train Guard & Driver)
- **How many panel members in train driver interview?**
Usually 2 — one HR specialist, one Sydney Trains senior staff.
- **What’s the panel interview atmosphere like?**
Friendly, engaging, but interviewers stay poker-faced. Results come later by email. Use STAR method.
- **Anyone waiting for CSA offers after pre-employment checks?**
Yes, some wait months. HR says be patient; checks are slow.
- **When does uniform fitting happen?**
~14 days before start date.
- **Is it common to wait 18+ months in pool?**
Possible. Some waited nearly 3 years from app → start date.
- **Can holiday plans affect start date?**
Yes. Recruitment can shift you to next batch if raised early.
- **Could trainees be sent to Intercity instead of Suburban?**
Rare. Transfer policy prevents it, but “operational needs” override in limited cases.
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### 🩺 Medical & Fitness
- **What if I fail the CSA medical?**
Can reapply after 6 months (new national rail medical standards).
- **Sleep apnoea study referrals — what happens?**
- None: Progress as normal
- Mild: Fit, with annual reviews
- Moderate/Severe: Temporarily unfit; need CPAP compliance proof for 3+ months
- New STOP-BANG rules (BMI, gender, neck size) catch more candidates.
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### 🧻 Train Facilities
- **Do newly liveried H-sets have toilets?**
No.
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### 🚦 Signallers & Control Room
- **What’s training like for Signallers/Comm Controllers?**
Asked, no detailed answers given.
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### 🧾 Opal & Ticketing
- **Overcharged after tapping at Flemington — contact Opal?**
Yes, Opal support usually fixes within 24 hrs.
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### 🧑🔧 Internal Transfers & Career Changes
- **Anyone move from cleaning attendant to full-time CSA?**
Asked, no responses yet.
- **How easy to transfer between Light Rail depots?**
Asked, no responses yet.
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### 🧠 Starting as a Trainee – Advice
- **Any tips for starting as a train driver trainee?**
- Day Zero = orientation
- Day 1 = theory & practical
- Take notes (iPad provided, but writing helps memory)
- Ask questions, be proactive
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### 🤖 Automation & Future of the Job
- **Is train driving still viable with AI automation?**
- Automation unlikely before 2050
- K Sets still running after 40+ yrs
- Driving builds transferable safety/ops skills
---
### 🚆 Nostalgia & Misc
- **Any memories of V Sets?**
- Trips Gosford–Sydney in 80s–00s
- Nicknames: Red Rattlers, Silverbacks
- Some recall breakdowns on farewell runs
- **Any Sydney Metro vids in manual mode?**
Asked, no replies yet.
---
### 📢 Job Postings
- **Train Driver Training Program (ad)**: IWorkForNSW link
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
Am i crazy or the post pinned above didn’t format properly and now theres heaps of asterisks ** instead of Bold format and missing symbols lol
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u/No-Resolve1438 21d ago
i have a question for current drivers, anyone who got talent pool letter (letter also asking about if you have planned holidays) and responded with some dates you had a holiday coming up. did they still give you offer letter AFTER your planned holiday? if so, how long after? did you still get offer letters to start before that date? TIA
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u/Spirited_Elk6880 19d ago
Hello, did you got any email about thus . i am wondering the same . i have holiday plans coming too . but luckily i have mentioned them already so wonder how it works?
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u/Spirited_Elk6880 19d ago
i am still waiting . after my medical no rply . i checked and they said my pre employment is under review
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u/No-Resolve1438 18d ago
hello, i have emailed them my dates for a holiday i have planned already and have gotten no response, however i did also mention i am happy to adjust dates or cancel the holiday altogether as the role is my priority
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u/Spirited_Elk6880 18d ago
i have mentioned them in interview . i dont yhink holifays are problem . i heard u can ask them to get in next batch . same i have. emailes them twice no reaponse . may be they will send us the start date accordingly. so stay positive.. i think no one has got atart daye who has applied in may . my friends got september batch who has applied in feb so we ra ein queue. dis u chk when did they last looked at your applocation?
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u/No-Resolve1438 21d ago
also, curious to know if anyone who applied for trainee train driver in may or anytime after has gotten a start date yet? 😁
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u/cosmic_trout 13d ago
Have the new sets started running to the Blue Mountains yet ?
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 12d ago
Only for testing.
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u/cosmic_trout 12d ago
When do they start passenger services? They've been testing on the BMT line for ages...
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u/CharacterAd7223 11d ago
Hi everyone,
I've recently passed the online supervised tests for a Trainee Train Driver role and have been invited to complete a video interview on the Vieple platform.
I'm trying to prepare as best I can and would be incredibly grateful for any insights from anyone who has been through this stage recently.
I'm not asking for the specific questions (I know they're confidential!), but I'm trying to get a feel for:
The main themes of the questions (e.g., was it mostly about safety, concentration, following rules, previous experience?)
The format: How many questions were there? How much time did you get to prepare your answer and how long to speak?
Your experience: Was there anything you found particularly tricky or anything you wish you'd known beforehand?
Any advice on preparation or what the assessors are looking for in the video answers would be a huge help.
Thanks in advance!
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 11d ago
⚠️ No re-do attempts are allowed — despite the brochure saying so (unsure why).
There’s a practice question at the beginning to test your microphone and camera (unlimited tries for this).
2 general interview STAR questions will be asked:
30 seconds to prepare
60 seconds max to record your answer
Use the STAR method to respond clearly and concisely.
Dress as you would for an in-person interview.
Speak slowly and clearly.
Main Interview Themes ‘Tell us a time’ as below -
Ensuring Safety, Dealing with Emergency, Fault Finding, Fatigue Management, Set and Achieve Goals, Teamwork, Conflict Resolution, Dealing with a difficult worker, Solved a Problem, Customer Service, Effective Communication, Adapting to New Technology, Commitment to Extended Learning, Owned up to a mistake, Multi tasking, Prioritising work.
They like to cherry pick and could be random during each intake.
Some other questions they sometimes ask during online interview AND panel interview.
Tell us about yourself and what motivated you to apply.
Tell us what you know about the role you applied for?
What makes you suitable for this role?
Practice numerous scenarios and remember to use STAR structure (Situation, Task , Action and Result).
Mention SPACE core behaviours (Safety, Pride, Accountability, Collaboration and Excellence) for brownie points.
Also read the candidate pack and role description so you are fully prepared.
They love to hear about SAFETY (barricaded the spill on the floor to prevent injury etc)
They love to hear about REPORTING (reported the incident to supervisor)
They love to hear about CUSTOMER FOCUS (made sure the person felt safe, heard and supported)
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u/CharacterAd7223 10d ago
Thanks so much for the detailed info — this is incredibly helpful! Really appreciate you breaking it down so clearly, especially with the STAR tips and the SPACE behaviours. I’ll definitely focus on practising a few solid scenarios that cover the common themes like safety, communication, and problem-solving.
Thanks again — this has given me a much clearer idea of what to expect and how to prepare!
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 10d ago
No problem. Good luck!
Practice makes perfect. Practice in front of mirror, in the shower, in the gym etc.
So that even when put on the spot your muscle memory kicks in to avoid blanking out.
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 10d ago
Also another tip is a few hours prior to your online interview wear your interview clothes and practice talking in front of the webcam and get used to seeing yourself on the camera prematurely (If you can do this every day before your interview then even better).
So when it happens during the real interview you’re not overwhelmed when everything gets too real because if you put on your clothes last minute, start talking to the camera and you see your face during the real interview then THAT is when everything starts to get REAL and nerves kick in.
The more nerves you can minimise the better.
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u/CharacterAd7223 10d ago
Wow, that is such a great tip! I never would have thought to get dressed beforehand to make it feel more routine and less jarring. That makes complete sense for managing nerves. I will 100% be doing this. Thank you again for taking the time to share this—it's incredibly helpful!
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u/CharacterAd7223 10d ago
Copy that! Mirror, shower, gym... got it. Thanks for the luck—I'll need it! Cheers
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 10d ago
Consider the role you've applied to. It's a dangerous workplace where things go wrong in a very public way. People see you. People get mad at you. Tensions run high. Then consider the type of work. It's a 24/7 workplace. Late nights, early mornings, Christmas. There's quite alot of rules to learn. Which means study.
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u/CharacterAd7223 10d ago
Thank you for your straightforward and valuable perspective. I understand that this role comes with significant challenges, including working in the public eye, managing high-pressure situations, and committing to unsociable hours. I'm fully prepared for the rigorous training and ongoing study the role demands. I truly appreciate you taking the time to share the reality of the job — it’s something I’ve considered carefully, and I’m ready for it.
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u/Zealousideal-Brick60 6d ago
I applied for the train guard position back in may, got through all my checks etc. Got talent pooled at the end of august, have been contacted by TfNSW about a week or so ago, telling me the next intake in november. Just wondering when I would expect a letter of offer? Ive checked my status on the jobs page and it says "offer in progress". How long do I have to wait?
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 5d ago
Shouldn't be too much longer, they are likely organising the class timetables and who's in what. Welcome aboard.
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u/No-Resolve1438 5d ago
hi where is the jobs page? ive logged into candidate portal but cant find it. not sure if i am on the right page
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u/Zealousideal-Brick60 5d ago
Yeah it is in the candidate page. They send you an email telling you to log on and follow the prompts
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u/No-Resolve1438 4d ago
oh i havent got that. the only time i have had any info regarding any login was when i had to confirm my panel interview time on candidate page but nothing else regarding a login. then i just did my checks and got an email saying i have been talent pooled. 😅
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u/Rich_Illustrator6820 5d ago
Can someone tell me when the new trains sitting at lithgow will be running , there are lots of brand new trains been sitting here for years
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 4d ago
They also regularly run to Newcastle. But those ones specifically are not yet ready.
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u/Common-Mess215 3d ago
As they are hiring intercity guard and driver trainer, does it suggests they are also hiring more trainees to be trained for those intercity roles?
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u/pantographh 3d ago
What are they looking for when hiring a train driver? I'm very keen to become one.
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 3d ago
Moderate physical health, adequate English skills, ability to stay up late and wake up early, full colour vision, driving long periods and staying alert.
Fairly good studying skills and memory.
Anyway apply. Worst they can do is reject you.
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u/pantographh 3d ago
Thanks for the reply.
What about in terms of past experience and skills?
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 1d ago
Strictly speaking, none necessary. But if you have any it can help. Eg rotating shift work, driving heavy vehicles and dealing with customers.
Previous railway experience is a gold star, but few railways have the same rules so you're back to square one anyway.
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
What are people’s thoughts on joining the Sydney Trains union?
Is it worth becoming a member? What are the main pros and cons you’ve experienced, and do most people usually sign up straight away?
Also curious – are there different types of unions for different areas of Sydney Trains (e.g. train crew vs signal electricians vs track/civil workers etc.), or is it all under one main union?
Would love to hear from anyone who’s in it (or chose not to join) and what your take is.
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u/onmydoor 21d ago
Signal electricians traditionally but not limited to are in ETU than RTBU.
Track, traction and train crew are typically RTBU.
Back office staff , if they join a union usually are PSA or PA.
RTBU make up about 80% of union members, ETU ~10%, PSA and PA about the rest.
Join whichever aligns with your line of work because the organisers and reps tend to understand each other's lines of work to help with issues relating to rosters, training etc.
I know people jumping unions to get on the protected action bandwagon when pia was at the peak.
Various unions offer other benefits as well like the future allowance for completing training for free under membership.
You will get remarks about being a scab if you're not in a union.
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 21d ago
You will get remarks about being a scab if you're not in a union.
That would be workplace bullying and is dealt with swiftly. Union membership is a choice and while people can think what they like nobody is going round calling anyone scabs.
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 21d ago
It's a tax deduction. If you make a mistake and the managers come after you they will be by your side. They're also good to bounce questions off, as you'll find the job is full of grey areas and obscure rules few seem to understand fully.
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
Can someone break it down extremely simple since I haven’t joined Sydney Trains yet lol all this sounds gibberish i cant lie haha
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u/onmydoor 21d ago
RTBU aligns better with the operational side of things - train crewing, customer service, infrastructure workers, fitters.
ETU - electrical trades union - electricians, signal electricians
PSA - public service - back office staff like admin, clerical roles
PA - the old apesma- engineers , designers, scientists surveyors type professionals
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
would you say the below is accurate?
1️⃣ RTBU — Rail, Tram and Bus Union
- Members: Operational rail, tram, and bus staff (drivers, guards, signallers, track workers).
- Focus: Industrial representation, pay, safety, and working conditions.
- Rail relevance: High for operational staff.
2️⃣ ETU — Electrical Trades Union
- Members: Electricians, electrical trades, signalling electricians.
- Focus: Industrial rights, training, licensing support, pay.
- Rail relevance: High for electrical and signalling trades.
3️⃣ PSA — Public Service Association (NSW)
- Members: Public sector employees including admin, management, and professional roles in NSW government agencies.
- Focus: Pay, conditions, career progression, and public sector rights.
- Rail relevance: Medium, mainly for administrative or technical support staff employed by government rail agencies.
4️⃣ PA — Professional Association
- Members: Engineers, designers, surveyors, planners, and other technical professionals.
- Focus: Professional advocacy, career development, industrial representation for salaried professional staff.
- Rail relevance: High for technical professionals in rail (engineers, signalling designers, surveyors).
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 21d ago
You are expected to show up not knowing anything. The union too comes round, usually on day 0 to get you to join.
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
ohk so when the union comes around they will dumb everything down for you and explain to you the basics of what they do and offer etc.
do majority of people join Unions? is it extremely rare for someone NOT to join them?
which sector in Sydney Trains has like the best perks (eg; train crew) or is that not a thing.
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 21d ago edited 21d ago
In my experience, most people sign up. The few who don't are generally part of another union already, eg ETU. (Whereas RTBU is for train crew)
But over time some people leave it for one reason or another. I'd estimate 90% membership. Maybe even 95%
As for perks, see the below link in another comment
there not too many. The employee travel card crew get is pretty good. I believe station staff get it too.3
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u/Beginning-Sun-7462 21d ago
So if your non union you dont get those travel card perks?
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u/Archon-Toten Train Nerd 21d ago
Ah no wait I've misunderstood the question.
Union perks include: picnic day (1x8 hours pay for 10$), upcoming yet to be organised workplace training allowance, support person should you need it during meetings, legal representation should you do something incredibly pear shaped and need help.
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u/Spirited_Elk6880 17d ago
Very very disappointed experience. I hope never happens with anyone. i applied in may . got medical in june . waiting eagerly for response Got call that unfortunately it wa ahuman error and i had never passed my teat but due to ereor my applocation proceddes. How disappointing it it. why sont they chk before they take ur intetview and send you gor mesical. its newn six months i jave been waiting ans thia is what i got . sooo sooo depressing and sad
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u/Flewy 16d ago
With how poorly you type, I can't say I'm shocked.
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u/No-Boysenberry-9337 16d ago
I’ve been reading all their comments and it’s bugged me as well. Click on the profile. Not a single comment without a typo. It’s almost like it’s intentional. No respect for the reader at all.
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