Driving training program helps young people secure employment and study opportunities

A new driving program is steering young people in Bunbury towards better employment opportunities by removing barriers that can prevent disadvantaged youth from getting their driver’s licence.

The End to End Young Driving Training program offers disadvantaged young people aged 16-25 the chance to receive free mentorship and supervised driving practice.

Delivered by Investing In Our Youth with funding from the South West Development Commission and the Department of Justice, the program sees a 67 per cent first time pass rate on practical driving assessments.

The vast majority of participants engaging in the program have gone on to secure employment or take on further study and training as a benefit of being able to get behind the wheel.

But End to End Young Driver Training program manager Semara Murphy said the initaitve goes “far beyond” teaching people to drive.

“We support some young people to access food if there is none in their home,” she said.

“We have assisted many young people in applying for and accessing supported accommodation when they are sleeping in parks and on the streets.

“We assist in gaining further independence by helping them apply for Medicare cards, Centrelink payments, TAFE courses or courses at the local PCYC.”

Having already supported 60 participants, young people can be referred to the popular program via partnering agencies.

Jayden Bascombe, who recently completed the program, said the entire process was “really easy” and encouraged others to get involved.

“I haven’t had to rely on anyone since getting my license . . . I’ve been driving around everywhere,” he said.

“I’m now looking into getting a job and focusing on getting my white card.”