Safer Driver Course

The Safer Driver Course (SDC) is being piloted by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) as part of the Driving Access and Equity Program (DAEP).

Designed in collaboration with the WA Centre for Road Safety Research, the course aims to reduce crash risk during the first six months of solo driving. It supports novice drivers to develop safer driving attitudes, strengthen hazard awareness, and make low risk decisions in a wide range of driving situations.

The pilot commenced in July 2025, initially focusing on regional and remote locations, with ongoing consultation to ensure the course is responsive to local needs across WA.

How it works

The SDC is available to novice drivers supported by selected driver training and education providers engaged through DAEP.

Participants attend a small group course of approximately four hours, consisting of:

Module 1: Activity based driver education in a classroom setting
Module 2: Practical in car driving and observation

Participants must have completed approximately 10 hours of supervised log book driving and have a sound understanding of operating a vehicle.

Why it matters

Provisional drivers in their first six months of driving are at the highest risk of serious road trauma.

The SDC helps novice drivers:

Recognise and respond to driving hazards
Manage peer pressure and distractions
Make safer behavioural choices behind the wheel

The course aligns with both State and National Road Safety Strategies, helping better prepare drivers before progressing to their P plates.

What participants are saying

Ashanti

“I was really nervous at first, but the course helped a lot and made me more aware of what’s happening on the road.”

Lesly

“I learned a LOT in this course and gave me more awareness of how I could be a safer driver.”

Cheska

“This course was eye opening and helped me feel more confident about making safer choices when driving.”

Danica

“The training helped me understand safer driving and made me feel more prepared.”

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