Read our recent media release about the Learner Driver Mentor Program by clicking here.
Research shows that the highest crash risk for drivers occurs during the first year of solo driving; this is a worldwide trend. In response Queensland, along with other States in Australia and countries overseas, has introduced a Graduated Licensing Scheme, in which driving restrictions are removed gradually, over time, along the path to a full licence.
This enables learners to develop driving skills in a safe, supervised environment and in a variety of driving conditions. Research suggests that this can have a significant impact in reducing the crash risk of first-year solo drivers. Queensland Transport requires that all learners record a mandatory 100 supervised driving hours in a logbook before they can take the practical driving assessment to enable progression to a P1 licence. However, one of the challenges with this approach is that it poses access barriers for disadvantaged and /or marginalised learners who may not have access to a vehicle or suitably licensed supervisor.
With this in mind, South Burnett CTC, in collaboration with Department of Communities and QLD Police Department of Crime Prevention, and other key stakeholders and community businesses, have been working to explore options for developing a supervisory driver program that harnesses community resources and draws on community capacity.
Through our work with the Cherbourg /Murgon Communities and Community Agencies some pressing issues were identified which lead to unemployment, problem drinking and a raft of social issues. One of the most significant barriers to employment was found to be the lack of drivers licence’s with in the community.
Within this community, it is extremely difficult to gain employment and to engage the individual (and their family) in activities without a driver’s licence. Employment and Youth Services can assist people to gain their L plates if it is part of a case plan, and can assist people access 5 driving lessons (equivalent to 15 hours of the required 100 hours of driving). Many individuals find it difficult to get the support of a relative or friend who has a registered car, a current licence and the time to assist them to gain the rest of the hours.
Young disadvantaged or marginalised community members, referred by Youth Services, Employment agencies or other approved organisations, will be supported to acquire Learner Licences, given access to some professional driving instruction and then matched with a Volunteer Mentor to accrue the 100 log book hours.
In this way we hope to assist community members obtain their license and become safe and responsible drivers.
For more information on this program or how you can help please contact CTC Diversionary Services on (07) 4169 5260.