Coalition commits to driver training

The Federal Coalition has commitment an additional $10 million in funding for the keys2drive national driver education program.

Developed by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and state and territory motoring clubs, keys2drive provides a free lesson to learner driver, including direct involvement for the learner’s parents or supervisor to better prepare them for teaching driver skills.

The program, which also incorporates an accreditation process for driving instructors, has been funded by the Commonwealth Government since 2008. Funding is due to expire at the end of 2013.

“This is a very welcome commitment,” said AAA Chief Executive, Andrew McKellar. “It is very encouraging to see a significant commitment to road safety in the context of the federal election campaign.

“Young drivers face a significantly increased crash risk when they transition from their L-plates to their P-plates and this program is intended to assist young people to be better drivers and safer drivers.

“Recent research shows that keys2drive students have around half the crash risk while on their P-plates compared with those who have not participated in the program.

“To date, the program has delivered around 200,000 lessons and operates with more than 1200 accredited driving instructors around Australia. With this additional funding we should be able to keep the program going for another two or three years.”

end