Calling volunteer mentors to empower young drivers with L2P
Published on 03 March 2023
Council is seeking mentor drivers to provide assistance to young learner drivers who face barriers in achieving the driving experience required to apply for a probationary licence.
Now in its 13th year, the L2P Program – funded by the TAC and the Department of Transport and Planning, and delivered by Council – matches learner drivers aged 16 to 21 with a fully-licensed volunteer driver and practice vehicle to help them gain the 120 hours behind the wheel needed to apply for a probationary licence. Mayor, Cr Sarah Carter, said it’s a win/win situation for our community.
"The L2P Program focuses on helping young people become safe, confident drivers to reduce Victoria's road toll. It also provides a unique opportunity for young people to interact with positive adult role models, gain confidence, and move towards social independence.
"It also allows our volunteer mentors to connect with their community and directly help a young person. For many of these young people, a license is essential to gaining employment or studying, and without L2P, they might be unable to reach their necessary 120 hours,” Mayor Carter continued.
There is currently a waitlist of student drivers, and a shortfall of mentor drivers to coach them.
If you are over 21 years of age, are able to commit around 1.5 hours per week, hold a current full Victorian driver’s licence, and are willing to undertake VicRoads training, you could become a driving coach with the program. Mentors are covered for liability through their volunteer status.
To be eligible to be mentored, learner drivers must be aged between 16 and 21 years, hold a current learner permit, have no access to a vehicle or a supervising driver and live in the City of Maribyrnong. Learners who participate in the Program have access to up to seven free driving lessons with a professional instructor to build their skills before getting on the road with a volunteer mentor.
For more information about becoming an L2P volunteer mentor or a learner driver visit www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/phoenix-youth-hub/Programs/L2P
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