Department of Transport initiative results in more licensed driving instructors for the regions

More licensed driving instructors will be available to help disadvantaged learner drivers in the regions obtain their driver’s licence after receiving training through the Department of Transport’s Driving Access and Equity Program (DAEP).

Recent driving instructor training held in Kalgoorlie and Carnarvon saw 11 participants awarded formal qualifications to professionally teach learners the road rules and how to safely drive a motor vehicle.

A further four participants used the training to improve their driving supervisor skills to better help learners with their driving experience and confidence in a variety of driving conditions.

The participants were representatives from community-based organisation who received DAEP grants earlier this year to deliver local driver training and education projects.

Department of Transport DAEP Director Katherine Drakeford said the training had upskilled locals who would take their new-found knowledge and skills back to their organisations for the benefit of their customers.

“We know that people in regional and remote WA face a number of barriers to obtaining their licence, including access to professional driving instruction and gaining supervised driving hours,” she said.

“We’re really pleased that because of this training, more licensed driving instructors will be delivering professional driving instruction to disadvantaged people in the regions.

"Importantly, we’re increasing the diversity of our instructors by actively recruiting more women and Indigenous people.

“This helps provide gender choice and address cultural sensitivities, ensuring learner drivers feel more comfortable receiving the instruction they need to obtain their driver’s licence and increase their independence and job opportunities.”

For more information on DAEP, visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/accessequityprogram

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au