Nominations are now open for the annual Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards, providing Queenslanders with an opportunity to recognise the dedicated drivers who help keep their communities moving every day.
The awards celebrate drivers who go above and beyond to deliver safe and reliable public transport services for their passengers, and provide an opportunity for customers to thank and recognise the drivers who make a positive difference in their community.
The Queensland Bus Driver of the Year will celebrate drivers across three categories:
- South East Queensland urban bus drivers (covering Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton and Redlands).
- Regional bus drivers (drivers on urban services in regional centres outside SEQ, including long distance coaches).
- School bus drivers (all school bus drivers across Queensland).
To nominate a bus driver, head to the Translink website and share a story of a driver who helps make the daily commute a little brighter. Nominations close at 11.59pm on Sunday, 6 September 2026.
Customers who nominate a bus driver will go into the draw for one of ten $150 pre-paid gift cards.
Finalists will be selected by an expert judging panel, with public voting to open in February next year.
Winners will be announced at the Queensland Bus Industry Council (QBIC) annual gala dinner and awards night in 2027.
Deputy Director-General Dean Helm said the Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards were a great opportunity to shine a light on the incredible bus drivers that keep Queensland moving.
“For many Queenslanders, bus drivers are a familiar and trusted part of their daily routine, helping thousands of people get to where they need to be safely and on time,” Mr Helm said.
“Whether it’s offering a helping hand, providing great customer service or simply brightening someone’s day, bus drivers make a real difference to the communities they serve.
“From getting people to work and school to helping them reach appointments, sporting events and special occasions, bus drivers play a vital role in keeping Queensland moving.
“I encourage anyone who has had a positive experience with a bus driver to take a few minutes to submit a nomination and help recognise the people who keep Queensland moving.”
Bus Driver of the Year Awards fast facts:
- The 2026 Awards mark the eighth Bus Driver of the Year since the program launched in 2018 (with 2020 missed due to COVID-19).
- More than 1,300 nominations were received last year across the three categories.
- Over 7,000 votes were cast for finalists earlier this year.
To nominate a bus driver, or for more information on the 2025 Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards, visit the Translink website.
ENDS
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