IN response to the tragic increase in deaths on Victorian roads in 2023, Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has called on the State Government to introduce a driver education module in Victorian secondary schools.
Highlighting the alarming increase in road fatalities last year, particularly the loss of 60 young people aged 16-25 years of age, she said, “Many of these horrific deaths may have been avoided had our young drivers been exposed to a more thorough and rigorous introduction to our road rules, safety and the importance of vehicle maintenance.”
Ms Tyrrell said making a course available to all Victorian Year 10-12 students through their schooling would enable qualified educators to correctly teach vital and potentially life-saving knowledge as students prepare to get their learners or probationary licenses. She wants a basic driver safety skills and vehicle maintenance program implemented into the curriculum for students in Years 10-12.
“Last years’ road toll statistics show that many young drivers lack education, understanding and respect on our roads and while some parents and carers have outstanding road safety skills and knowledge to pass on to their children, a school-based educational course dedicated to road safety, driving skills and basic vehicle maintenance would better prepare them for their first years on the road,” said Ms Tyrrell.
“I do not wish to see our young people being lost on the roads because they were denied the time, patience and correct guidance from those who are deemed responsible enough to show them how to be safe drivers.”
