VU & Transit Systems Victoria join forces

Victoria University (VU) will help shape the public transport service of the future under a new partnership with Transit Systems Victoria (TSV), supporting the bus operator’s efforts to modernise its workforce and operations. 

The two organisations based in Melbourne's west signed a two-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today, creating new opportunities across employment, research, workforce development and community programs. 

Building a talent pipeline is a key focus of the MOU, with students from business, engineering, IT, logistics and supply chain faculties to be given pathways to jobs and placements at TSV’s West Footscray and Melton depots.  

The partnership is already delivering results, with a VU graduate being recruited for a newly created Health, Safety and Quality role at TSV. 

The public transport operator is the second largest in Melbourne’s west and provides VU’s Footscray Park. 

VU Deputy Vice-Chancellor, External Relations and Partnerships, Wade Noonan welcomed the partnership, saying it would pay dividends for staff, students and the western suburbs community. 

“This innovative partnership will help deliver practical solutions for Melbourne’s growing west,” he said. 

“By supporting TSV’s transition to zero-emission buses, developing workforce skills, collaborating on research and creating student pathways, we are combining VU’s expertise with TSV’s drive to modernise its operations. Our shared commitment to sustainability and strong connection to Melbourne’s west will help ensure a lasting impact.” 

Key features of the partnership include: 

• Workforce development initiatives with mental health, cultural awareness, disability and AI literacy training provided to TSV staff 
• Opportunities for applied research and co-funded PhD programs in areas such as sustainable building design, battery and electric transition and the visitor economy 
• Creation of accessible jobs and skills opportunities linked to transport and infrastructure 
• Support in redeveloping TSV’s West Footscray depot  
• Community investment includes scholarships, transport focused programming at Brimbank Tech School and a partnership with VU’s Skills and Jobs Centre. 

Transit Systems Victoria managing director George Konstantopoulos, a VU alumnus, said the partnership laid the foundation for a combined approach to support students entering the industry. 

“As a Victoria University graduate, I know how much the right industry exposure during your studies can shape the career that follows,” Mr Konstantopoulos said. 

“By strengthening connections between industry and education, we can create valuable opportunities for students while helping build the skilled workforce needed to support public transport network across Melbourne’s Inner and outer Western growth corridor." 

TSV, a subsidiary of Kelsian Group, operates public bus services across Melbourne’s western suburbs under contract to the Victorian Government. 

The operator has more than 160 buses with plans to grow and diversify its 280-strong workforce over the next five years.