We're on the hunt for fully licensed drivers over 21 from the 3214, 3215 and 3212 postcodes to volunteer in the TAC L2P Program.
The program has a volunteer shortfall from Corio, Norlane, Lara and North Geelong, meaning local learner drivers are waiting up to six months longer than those in other suburbs to gain experience behind the wheel.
Volunteer mentors are integral to supporting young people to drive safely and achieve their P plates when they don't have access to a supervising driver or vehicle.
Driver mentors receive a full day of training from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), with the next training session scheduled for November.
In 2024-25, 110 volunteers across Greater Geelong contributed to 76 drivers passing their probationary licence test. A total of 621 local drivers have become P-platers in the program's 16 years of operation.
Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson
The City is looking for enthusiastic community members to commit to one to two hours a week to the L2P program.We're calling for patient and understanding community members from the northern suburbs to help a local young person aged 16-21 years old to grow into a confident and safe driver.
It's vital that we increase volunteer numbers for the 3214, 3215 and 3212 postcodes so that we can reduce wait times experienced by young people living in those areas who are trying to access the program.
We don't want to disadvantage these young people because of where they live.
Councillor Anthony Aitken
The program gives young people independence and freedom when they achieve their Ps.This is a chance to offer a young person a safe and supportive environment while they're in the driver's seat.
Our driver mentors are a highly valued part of this community-based program that helps to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities among young drivers.
