L2P – learner driver mentor program: extending driver licensing reach in disadvantaged communities.

In 2007 Victoria introduced a new Graduated Licensing System (GLS) to improve young driver safety. Provisions included a 12 month minimum holding period for under 21 year olds and a requirement for this cohort to gain 120 hours on road experience prior to taking a probationary licence test. A two-stage, four year probationary licence was also introduced. The GLS was expected to reduce Victorian young driver injuries by up to 800 per year, and result in 12 fewer deaths.
The L2P – learner driver mentor program was initiated as a result of the newly-introduced 120 hours on road experience requirement. It was recognised that while most learners would be able to gain 120 hours experience, some community members would struggle because they lacked a vehicle, a supervising driver or the means to purchase paid instruction.