A parliamentary petition has been launched urging the Victorian Government to reduce the minimum age for obtaining a probationary driver’s licence from 18 to 17.
This initiative aims to align Victoria with other Australian states and territories, where the probationary driving age is typically set at 17.
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The petition pointed out that young people in rural and regional areas of Victoria, where public transport options are limited or nonexistent.
Reducing the probationary driving age would provide these individuals with greater access to educational and employment opportunities.
Nationals Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad said: “Having 12 months of driving habits developed before the legal age of being able to purchase alcohol is an important safety measure.”
Broad said that Victoria is “behind the game” compared to other states and territories in this regard.
The petitioners are also advocating for the introduction of incentives for learner drivers to undertake professional driver training, similar to programs offered in New South Wales.
Currently, Victoria is the only state or territory in Australia that requires probationary drivers to be aged 18 or over.
The petition has garnered support from various community groups and individuals who believe that lowering the probationary driving age would address the mobility challenges faced by young Victorians, particularly those in rural and regional areas.
Although the Victorian Government has not publicly responded, the petition has garnered 870 signatures so far.
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