Red Cross and NRMA support indigenous learners

An alliance formed by the Australian Red Cross and the NRMA is paving the way for 50 Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders in regional New South Wales to obtain their P1 driving licences.

The NRMA has chipped in $500,000 for the program, which is also aimed at engaging the young learners in study or employment in the Shoalhaven region and around Wagga Wagga.

“With a drivers licence, these young people can apply for and start jobs knowing they have the means to get to an interview or to a job site,” says Australian Red Cross regional manager for Wagga, John Pocius.

“For many young people in our region, we know there’s no one to give them the driver training they need to earn their licence,” Pocius was quoted as saying in a press release.

“Our volunteer drivers are locals who also provide a positive role model for young people and share their knowledge, connection to and experience of the local area. This contact can be extremely motivating for our participants.”

The two-year partnership will boost access to transport for young people in the rural areas, and it's also part of the NRMA's Reconciliation Action Plan, according to the association's Regional Director, Fiona Simson.

“A driver’s licence is a life-changing tool that helps unlock social and economic opportunities for drivers, their family and their communities,” Ms Simson said.

“This is particularly the case for Indigenous communities, who we know face additional barriers in gaining a drivers licence, which is why we sponsor and deliver programs across the state to support driver training for Aboriginal people.

“Ensuring young people are equipped for the driving task is also key to delivering on the NRMA’s commitment to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.”

Pictured: Australian Red Cross volunteer David with trainee Blake, courtesy of Australian Red Cross/Dilini Perera