{
  "id": 636755,
  "title": "New Zealand bus drivers ‘duped’ into Sydney jobs, unable to return home",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/12/new-zealand-bus-drivers-duped-into-sydney-jobs-unable-to-return-home",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-12T05:44:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "RNZ Business",
    "slug": "rnz-business",
    "url": "https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/976137/new-zealand-bus-drivers-duped-into-sydney-jobs-unable-to-return-home"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Bus drivers from New Zealand were deceived into taking jobs in Sydney by the company Keolis, only to find themselves trapped without the promised beach lifestyle and unable to return home without paying a significant bond. According to the New South Wales transport union (RTBU), Keolis advertised attractive pay and a lifestyle on the beach, but workers were required to pay a $10,000 bonding payment shortly before their contracts began. With many already having resigned or sold their belongings, it was difficult to turn back. The union is aware of at least three drivers who want to return home, with about 17 in total, and the scheme could accommodate up to 30 drivers. The union is currently taking legal action against Keolis, arguing that the arrangement could be considered human trafficking under Australian criminal law and that the bond is not legally binding. Keolis has denied the claims, stating that they were upfront about the contractual terms. The bus contracts in Sydney are funded by taxpayers and run by private companies, which the union is concerned about using taxpayer money for potentially exploitative conditions. The union has also spoken to the transport minister about the issue, expressing concern that Keolis may not have obtained proper approval from the transport department. The union claims that the company is offering an idyllic lifestyle that is not accurate, with long hours, heavy traffic, and low pay. Most drivers plan to leave within the first two weeks, and some have brought their families, cramping them into one-bedroom apartments. The Northern beaches of Sydney is one of the most expensive areas, making it impossible for a bus driver's wage to afford living there. The union hopes that the court proceedings will result in the end of the scheme, with potential government intervention to address the situation.",
  "summary": "An NSW transport union says a $10,000 bond was sprung on bus drivers who accepted misleading job opportunities in Sydney.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}