A petition calling on the Victorian government to reduce the minimum probationary drivers’ licence age from 18 to 17, in line with every other Australian state, has been tabled in parliament.
The Nationals’ MP for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad sponsored the petition which attracted more than 4000 signatures.
Ms Broad said the petition highlighted a major issue for regional and rural families.
“In recent months, I heard from many frustrated families who were keen to see the law changed." she said.
"There is limited public transport in regional areas and family members and friends are called on to act as a taxi service.
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“I’ve heard from young people who have been severely disadvantaged.
"They have had to pass up valuable employment and educational opportunities because they simply could not get themselves there.”
Ms Broad said the lower driving age did not need to be at the cost of road safety.
“Everyone wants our young drivers to be safe," she said.
"In NSW there are special driver training programs and incentives focused on safety, which could easily be replicated in Victoria.”
Victoria is the only state in Australia that requires probationary drivers to be 18.
“I’ve heard from grandparents, parents and young people keen to see change,” she said.
“It was great to see the petition receive support from across the state, with signatures from Mildura to Mount Martha.”
The minister must respond to the petition within 30 days.
