The Andrews Labor Government is helping learner drivers in Wyndham and Hobsons Bay to get the driving practice they need.

The Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan today launched the WynBay L2P program – a community-based initiative that recruits volunteers to help disadvantaged young people get their P’s.

Volunteers will supervise learner drivers under 21 years of age who find it difficult to meet the mandated 120 hours of driving practice due to family, economic or other circumstances.

The program has the support of Laverton Integrated Services, Wyndham and Hobsons Bay Councils, VicRoads, Bendigo Bank Community Grants Program and Kia Motors Hoppers Crossing.

In the five years to 2016, more than 2,600 drivers between the age 18-25 were involved in collisions in Wyndham and Hobsons Bay – with 10 killed and 321 seriously injured.

Since 2010, the L2P program has assisted 3,953 young people get their probationary licence and assisted 9,967 learners with on-road driving practice.

There are new 26 L2P programs operating in Melbourne 43 and in regional Victoria. For more information visit vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan

“Every young person deserves a chance to get behind the wheel and get their licence.”

“The L2P program gives disadvantaged young Victorians the support they need to become safe and responsible drivers.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“L2P doesn’t only help disadvantaged young Victorians get their licence; it also boosts their driving skills for future employment and deters unlicensed driving.”

“Labor began this program in 2008. Since then, the L2P program has helped more than 3,000 disadvantaged young Victorians get the driving experience they need.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Altona Jill Hennessy

“This program will better young people across Wyndham and Hobsons Bay to work, education and each other.”

“The benefits of a volunteer mentoring driving program extend beyond road safety – this program gives young people independence, builds their confidence and lets them know that they are part of a community.”