Even more people on the Coffs Coast who face roadblocks to obtaining a driver licence will find it easier under the expansion of the NSW Government’s $20 million Driver Licensing Access Program (DLAP).
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the NSW Government is doubling its investment from the last DLAP round over the next five years to better support people who face barriers to get their learner and provisional driver licences.
ACE Community College is the provider in Coffs Harbour.
“This program helps disadvantaged groups like Aboriginal communities, vulnerable youth, low socio-economic environments and people from refugee resettlement communities get their driver licence, building upon our vision for a stronger, safer regional NSW,” Mr Singh said.
“Since the program started in 2015, DLAP has helped more than 4500 participants to gain their L-plates and more than 3000 people gain their P-plates.”
Minister for Regional Youth Bronnie Taylor said this is an issue that has consistently been raised with her since becoming the Minister for Regional Youth.
“A driver’s licence can be a real game changer for people living in regional areas – it can be the difference between getting a job, getting to TAFE or accessing essential health services,” Mrs Taylor said.
“We want everyone to have the opportunity to be a safe and legal driver, and this program enables us to give young people in the regions a hand to unlock the barriers they may face in doing that.”
Mrs Taylor said DLAP was helping young drivers navigate the Graduated Licensing Scheme (GLS) by preparing them for the driver knowledge test to gain their Ls and helping them clock up 120 log book hours.
