Frequently asked questions

What are Driving Access and Equity Program grants?

Driving Access and Equity Program grants are a component of the larger Driving Access and Equity Program, a State Government initiative managed by the Department of Transport to help disadvantaged people, in regional and remote Western Australia, obtain their driver’s licence and become safe, employable drivers.

What can the grants be used for?

Funding can be used for projects and initiatives that achieve one or more of the following four objectives:

Objective 1: Provide access to appropriately licensed vehicles to allow learner drivers to complete supervised driving hours, receive professional instruction or attempt a practical driving assessment.

Objective 2: Provide access to suitably licensed driving supervisors and instructors.

Objective 3: Deliver program/s that help overcome local issues and costs that prevent people from obtaining their driver’s licence.

Objective 4: Provide improved access to driver licensing services.

Who is eligible for the grants?

The following organisations are eligible to apply:

• local government authorities
• community organisations
• educational institutions
• not for profit organisations
• corporations, including Aboriginal controlled organisations
• businesses or organisations that provide access to driving supervision or instruction. 

Note: Joint proposals from organisations to deliver project/s that assist beneficiaries to complete all 6 steps to get their licence will be viewed favourably.

If your organisation does not fit within one of the categories listed above, please contact the program team to discuss options.

What funding is available for this grant round?

More than $15.5 million in Round 5 grants announced in October 2024, will support 28 community organisations across WA.

This funding was boosted by the inclusion of an additional $4.2 million from the Road Trauma Trust Account, through the Road Safety Commission. 

What is the expected timeframe for grant-funded projects to be active and delivering services to local communities?

Existing regional projects can continue to actively deliver their services to the community. For new projects, four months is dedicated to project establishment and a further 16 months is dedicated to project delivery.

All grant-funded activities must be completed within 16-20 months from when the grant agreement is signed. 

How were the grants assessed?

The Department of Transport, in consultation with the Driving Access and Equity Program Grants Assessment Committee, evaluate applications and make recommendations for approval to the Minister for Transport. 

The Driving Access and Equity Program Grants Committee consists of five representatives, at least one that does not work for the Department of Transport. 

Applications are assessed against selection criteria including the proposal’s ability to deliver on the program’s objectives and value for money.

When will I receive the grant funding?

Successful applicants will be required to enter into a Grant Agreement Contract with the Department of Transport. This agreement contract will outline the funding and payment details.

Do I have to acknowledge the grant funding in some way?

Applicants are required to seek the Department of Transport’s permission prior to making any media announcement regarding their grant. Media statements regarding the grant must mention the Department of Transport's Driving Access and Equity Program contribution to the project.

If I am unsuccessful this round, can I still apply when the next round opens?

Yes. Applicants who have been advised that their application was unsuccessful can contact the Department of Transport to discuss the outcome of the assessment and how the application/project might be amended for consideration in any future rounds.