Simulator takes the jitters out of learner driving

A Bunbury business is ushering in a new era for learning to drive with a state of the art driving simulator that allows users to learn road rules and build confidence before getting behind the wheel of a car.

Phil Hands, program coordinator at the Noongar Employment Enterprise Development Aboriginal Corporation said not holding a driver’s licence was a barrier to finding work.

“The simulators were originally bought to provide training for Aboriginals who were struggling to obtain their licences but we are now making them available to anyone that would like to have a go,” he said.

“In the past, kids would learn to drive by taking the family car out into the paddock with mum or dad but nowadays fewer and fewer young people have that opportunity.

“These simulators are the closest thing you can get to driving without physically getting into a car and they’re pretty comprehensive in the areas that they cover.”

Jarrod Doe and his support worker Derek Fisk have spent a number of hours with the simulator since NEEDAC recently partnered with Enable Southwest.

“I’m planning on applying for my licence soon and have been using the simulator to learn the basics of driving,” Mr Doe said.

Mr Fisk said the simulator had been a big help to Mr Doe.

“Jarrod has improved his awareness and concentration and now has a firm grasp of most of the road rules,” he said.

The entire driving simulator package takes 6½ hours to complete but is broken down into 30-minute modules that can be taken in any order.

Call NEEDAC on 9791 7377 for more information.