From left, South Eastern Metropolitan Region State Member Inga Peulich, L2P co-ordinator Tatiana Kharlamova, Jesuit Social Services volunteer Janice McNamara and Southern Directions Youth Services L2P co-ordinator Toby Laverick.By Bridget Cook
A NEW learner driver program was launched in Dandenong last week, aimed to help disadvantaged youth.
The L2P program aims to help disadvantaged youths in the Youth Justice System and young people residing in out-of-home care learn how to drive.
Adults volunteer their time to mentor the youths in driving, allowing them to gain the required 120 hours of experience before they can attain their probationary licence.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region State Member Inga Peulich, who launched the program, said the initiative was an excellent example of a collaborative approach by government, the community sector and community representatives.
Ms Peulich said the program provided disadvantaged youth with support to get their driving licence, which was considered to be a rite of passage for young people transitioning to adulthood.
“The L2P program is designed to ensure that learner drivers without access to supervising drivers or vehicles can maximise their supervised driving experience,” Ms Peulich said.
“Increased driving practice in the safest circumstances results in increased experience behind the wheel and helps reduce new driver crashes.”
Further information on the L2P Program can be found at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
