L2P: An innovative community based learner driver mentor program

Under the new Graduated Licensing System in Victoria, learner drivers must gain 120 hours of supervised driving practice. The L2P—learner driver mentor program is an innovative community-based learner driver program that was developed to assist disadvantaged young drivers aged 16-21 years, without access to a supervising driver or vehicle, in gaining this experience.

The L2P program is funded by the Transport Accident Commission and VicRoads is providing the L2P program model, funding and support to establish local community L2P programs, in partnership with local government and community agencies involved in the delivery of services to young people.

The program involves a young learner driver and a trained community volunteer, utilising a sponsored vehicle to undertake supervised driving sessions, in much the same way as parents/carers working with their children. The driving is undertaken in stages with graduation through each stage being supported by lessons with a professional driving instructor. Administrative support is provided through a funded program coordinator for each community project.

VicRoads has brought together key stakeholder organisations to provide specialist expertise, community engagement, and resources to create an opportunity for young people based on best practice in terms of road safety, risk-management, and community program management and coordination. This large-scale community project has 40 funded L2P programs which will help support over 1500 disadvantaged learner drivers, incorporating those also from CALD and Indigenous backgrounds, with further programs still in development.