Bunbury teens benefit from new driving program

When Bunbury 17-year-old Shania Brown got her L-plates, she was over the moon.

Starting the End to End Young Driver Training program earlier this year, she is now the first participant to get her learner’s permit.

I’m very proud to see Shania get through the South West Development Commission-supported program and pass with a perfect 30 out of 30 on the theory test.

The Bunbury-based program was introduced to help young people aged 16-25 get their licence, through free lessons, practice and mentorship for those referred to it by partner agencies.

About 25 young people are taking part, which Ms Murphy said had multiple benefits.

“Confidence is huge for young people to gain independence … and it makes young people much more employable if they have a driver’s licence,” she said.

She said it also “broke the cycle” of young people driving without a licence and getting suspended.

Operating in Bunbury and Busselton, she said they would be expanding to Manjimup, with Collie and Harvey in their sights in the future.

Bunbury MLA Don Punch congratulated Miss Brown on her achievement.

For so many regional employers driving is an essential skill they need from their employees so helping young people get their driver’s licence is a vital part of helping them become job ready.

The program incorporates the RYDE program and is delivered by Investing In Our Youth.