More Broome Teenagers road ready thanks to State Government grant

Broome PCYC will now be able to help more local young people obtain their drivers licence through the PCYC ‘Drive to the Future’ Program, thanks to $195k funding from the McGowan State Government.

PCYC works with some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people in WA. We know there are multiple barriers for some young people to gain a driving licence, including a lack of money to pay for their learner’s permit, logbooks and tests, a lack of support to complete the required 50 hours of supervised driving practice, not having an appropriate vehicle to practice in, and sometimes not even being able to source the documents they need to prove their identify to get a learner’s permit.

Over the years, PCYC has run similar effective programs in Broome, Geraldton, Kensington, Northam and Rockingham. Now, thanks to State Government support, Broome PCYC will be able to take more young people through the theory, practice and testing required to obtain their driver’s licence. The funds will also allow for the purchase of a dual pedal vehicle, meaning PCYC is fully equipped to support young people through the process.

Learning to drive is an important milestone for young people. Not only does it give them greater scope to gain employment, especially in remote and regional towns, but is also helps them to participate in community life in general. Previous participants said the Drive to the Future Program gave them something they never thought they’d have, that it improved their self-confidence and that they also really valued the mentor process.

Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti, said, “We know how important access to a driver's licence is - not only does it lead to more opportunities for employment, but also provides a sense of achievement and pride.”

Member for Pilbara, Kevin Michel MLA stated “A driver's licence opens up so many opportunities for our young people - work, education and fun.”

PCYC Regional Manager, Nicky Duffy, commented, “We’ve seen first-hand the difference it makes when young people gain their driving licence. For some it’s the first time they believe in themselves and see an exciting future ahead.”