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City of Greater Shepparton
URL: http://www.greatershepparton.com.au/news/l2plaunch.html
Please note: this is an archived news article release.
This article was published on 25 August 2010. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.
New Program to Help Young Drivers
News article released on Wednesday 25 August 2010
A new program, L2P, which aims to provide the opportunity for young people who face a significant barrier (economic, social or other) to getting their license was launched in Greater Shepparton today.
L2P - Learner driver mentor program will give young people the opportunity to get the required 120 hours of supervised driving practice before getting their probationary licence.Greater Shepparton City Council's LEAD Coordinator Amanda Tingay said L2P is a community based volunteer program.
"L2P gives learner drivers who may not have access to regular driving practice the opportunity to undertake free driving practice under the supervision of fully licensed drivers," Ms Tingay said.
"There are a number of young people in our community who do not have access to a car or a supervised driver who can help them get the practice they need to get their license.
"Program participants will receive driving lessons with qualified instructors as well as practice with volunteers.
"Lack of available transport is a barrier for a number of people, so this program provides a solution to those who would be otherwise disadvantaged by their circumstances.
"Having a licence can open doors for many people, including employment opportunities and greater independence."
A survey by Vicroads has indicated that around 3.5 per cent of learner drivers under 21 across Victoria may need assistance in gaining the necessary 120 hours of supervised driving experience prior to licensing.
The program is linked to the new graduated licensing system which requires learner drivers under 21 to obtain a minimum 120 hours practice before getting their probationary license. The graduated licensing system is designed to reduce the number of crashes, deaths and injuries suffered by young drivers in their first three years of solo driving.
The program has been set up through a partnership between Council, Berry Street and is funded by the Victorian Government supported by VicRoads.
The program will be managed by Berry Street, who will match student drivers with volunteers and coordinate the necessary support to ensure student success.
If anyone wants to volunteer to be part of the program, please contact Council's LEAD Coordinator Amanda Tingay on 5832 9700 or Bill Winters from Berry Street on 0437 762 520
- Released 25 August