Migrant women get help to drive

Bunbury Multicultural Group is the driving force behind a new project aimed at helping migrant women feel confident on the roads.

The “Driving to make a Difference” pilot project offers women, who may otherwise become easily isolated, free driving lessons.

Group chairwoman Shamara Williams said driving was a basic skill, but many migrant women were lacking confidence.

“Many culturally and linguistically diverse women in regional communities, such as the Greater Bunbury area, become marginalised due to the lack of good public transport and therefore their inability to access services that can benefit them and their families,” Ms Williams said.

“This can also restrict them accessing skills and training that can lead to employment opportunities in the future.

“We believe that being able to drive develops the status of women and helps them become self-reliant and able to access community events and networks in the broader community.

“We take so much of this for granted and don’t realise just how empowering being able to drive is to our quality of life as a whole.”

Zonta Club of Bunbury is funding the project, which is being delivered in partnership with Multicultural Services Centre WA.

To take part go to Bunbury Multicultural Group’s Facebook page or email admin@bunburymulticulturalgroup.com.au.