- Published:
- Sunday 20 December 2015
The Andrews Labor Government will be putting more money back into young drivers’ and motorcyclists’ wallets in the New Year, with the new Free Licence Scheme starting on 1 February 2016.
The first round of registration renewal notices will be issued this week outlining the steps for eligible young drivers and motorcycle riders under the age of 21 to take advantage of the Government’s Free Licence Scheme.
From 1 February, young drivers who complete both their red and green probationary periods with no traffic offences or demerit points will be rewarded for their safe driving practices with a free three year licence.
The licence, worth $76, will be awarded to drivers when they receive their full licence for the first time.
As well as having a good driving record, drivers must be issued a probationary licence before the age of 21 to be eligible for the scheme.
Young and inexperienced drivers face the greatest risk on our roads, with road crashes continuing to be one of the leading causes of death for young people aged 18 to 25 years.
The $7 million scheme is being delivered through the Young Driver Safety Package, a suite of five road safety initiatives targeted at improving the safety of these vulnerable road users.
The $146 million Young Driver Safety Package provides young drivers with education, support and experience through the road safety education complex, practical safe driving program, L2P - learner driver mentor program, Free Licence Scheme, community grants, a communication fund and student forums.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan
“We can reduce road trauma among young people by rewarding Victoria’s most responsible young drivers.”
“Responsible and safe young drivers are an example to their peers and it’s important that we recognise and reward them.”
“We want to make sure our young people are coming home to their families safe and well.”