Learner drivers rejoice over licence fee changes

DOTTING the i’s and crossing the t’s is one of the biggest challenges new drivers face.

If the nerves don’t delay some individuals, then often the costs affiliated with driving do.

The recent slashing of licence fees for learner and probationary drivers, alongside the abolishment of online testing fees, means L-platers and P-platers are $184.70 better in pocket.

“It’s wonderful to hear that I’ll be able to get my probationary licence for free,” Wonthaggi L2P learner driver, Ty explained.

“It relaxes my money spending. Helps get my car on the road because all that money will be put towards getting a roadworthy instead of the new licence.”

Up to 1000 young drivers in regional Victoria will also be able save money and ditch their older model cars for safer, more modern vehicles through the expansion of the unsafe2safe program, which is providing a $5000 subsidy.

With 14 hours in his logbook and parents support, Ty jumped on board the opportunity to expand his driving experience with the L2P program.

“Ty and I have been driving together since May 2019,” L2P mentor Don explained.

“We have got to know each other fairly well in that time.”

Dedicating time each week, Don’s experience is what drew him into the program.

“I was initially involved with Bike Ed in primary schools,” Don said.

“Because of contacts through VicRoads, and my previous professional career as a teacher, I was asked to come on board with regard to running training programs for new volunteers.

“That led me to wanting to be one of the volunteers myself!”

Don dedicates his time to two learner drivers with 30 local learners under L2P mentors across the district.

Getting to explore the countryside with Don is one of the best parts for Ty who has now clocked up over 120 hours.

“Sometimes going a bit further than I would usually go. Two weeks ago, we went up to Clayton,” Ty explained.

“I miss the night driving – that was pretty fun!”

“If you don’t have anyone to drive with, see if L2P is accepting learners, and if they are, go for it.

“It’s a pretty good experience – you might get a funny guy like Don – it’s totally worth learning with a mentor.”

Working locally at present having his licence will open many more doors for Ty, not just professionally but personally.

“It offers me the ability to see my friends, go into the city more often, potentially have a road trip around Australia. It offers up many things that would be pretty cool to do.”

“The program is always looking for volunteers. There are more learners on the waiting list than there are supervising drivers to go out with them,” Don added.

Anyone interested in becoming a mentor driver can contact Melanie on 0467 590 679 or basscoastl2p@wonthaggineighbourhoodcentre.com.

For more information about licence and registration services in Victoria or to access the online learner permit and hazard perception tests, head to vicroads.vic.gov.au.