Learning to drive can be challenging, especially for young people without regular access to a vehicle or a patient instructor.
The TAC L2P program aims to address these issues by offering free supervised driving experiences to young Victorians in need.
The community-based initiative is designed to assist eligible young learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21.
Participants are matched with fully licensed volunteer mentors and have access to a program vehicle, which they use to gain the supervised driving experience needed to obtain a probationary driver’s licence.
A driver’s licence is more than just a means of transportation; it can unlock educational and employment opportunities, strengthen social connections, and improve the overall wellbeing of a young person.
“There are people who do not have access to a car or supervisor and shouldn’t be disadvantaged because of this. This program provides a vital bridge for people to access such necessary support” said Zahra who recently gained their probationary driver’s licence through the program.
The milestone was a celebratory moment for both Zahra and their mentor Kass.
“It was a great day, and I was very proud of Zahra after spending time with her most weekends for nearly a year.”
“I’m happy to have been part of the program and seen someone that without L2P would have struggled to get their licence” said Kass, a volunteer with the Salvation Army’s City of Melbourne’s driver program.
This year, the program has been further supported through a partnership with Transurban, who is providing $50,000 in additional funding.
“Our road network is a critical link for millions of Melburnians to move around the city and beyond, which is why we support various programs to help people learn to drive and use our roads safely” said Liz Waller, Transurban’s’ Acting General Manager HSE.
“We’re proud to support the TAC L2P program which, since 2009, has helped more than 10,000 young people gain their probationary licence and be safe and confident drivers on the roads.”
The additional funds will support six programs in Melbourne, providing licence readiness and road safety training to more young people.
Find out more at transurban.com/roadsafety
