Kirsten is the National Industrial Relations Manager for the Bus Industry Confederation. At the same time, Kirsten heads up the Australian Public Transport Industrial Association (APTIA), which is the industrial arm of BIC. Kirsten has almost 15 years’ experience in people leadership roles across multiple industries. Notably, 7 years across the bus and passenger transport industry. Kirsten holds a Juris Doctor from the Australian National University, a Master of Human Resource Management (Employee Relations) and Bachelor of Management (Psychology). Kirsten is also a member of the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) and former State President and Councillor of the NT AHRI Council.

Patrice Scerri is the Executive General Manager – Safety & Sustainability at Ventura, Victoria’s largest bus operator. With experience across transport, mining, fire engineering, high-performing safety systems, and risk management, she leads Ventura’s safety and sustainability strategy. Patrice drives continuous improvement in workplace safety, road safety, operational risk, and compliance, while fostering a proactive safety culture across Ventura’s 1,800+ workforce. She is passionate about early intervention and embedding safer behaviours throughout the organisation. Patrice also leads sustainability initiatives supporting Ventura’s commitment to cleaner, more environmentally responsible public transport for millions of Victorian customers each year.

Maria is a leading commercial lawyer who regularly advises operators, manufacturers and suppliers in relation to major Government contracts, procurement processes, supply agreements and OHS issues. She has extensive experience in advising clients in every State and Territory in Australia and is considered a legal expert on Government contracts. Recently, Maria has been advising her clients on the introduction of zero emission vehicles as well as the construction and/or upgrade of zero emission depots. Her work includes advising on variations to existing Government contracts and direct deeds, as well as drafting supply agreements and infrastructure agreements. She also has significant experience in negotiating and advising on the sale of businesses way of asset and/or share sale throughout Australia. She is particularly sought out for her industry knowledge which is an advantage for her clients while doing due diligence and obtaining consent for the transaction from Government and other third parties.