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New program to reduce road fatalities among young Victorians |
| 02 September 2011 |
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 MA Media Release - 2 September 2011Fatalities involving unlicensed drivers will be reduced thanks to a groundbreaking new Mission Australia and TAC program launched in Melbourne today. The Ignition program aims to reduce the number of fatalities among unauthorised drivers – many of whom have low literacy and numeracy and are from disadvantaged backgrounds – by teaching them the road rules through fun, interactive games and online scenarios. With 13 per cent of road fatalities involving unlicensed drivers and crash rates among this group being three times higher than those with licenses, Ignition is addressing a major problem which has previously been ignored. The first program of its kind for people struggling to read and write, Ignition can be delivered online or through group training with a Mission Australia instructor. Mission Australia Youth Services Manager Annie Carter said Ignition can be used by anyone who needs extra help getting their learner permit, especially those in migrant communities who may have difficulty understanding the licensing system who might risk their own and other people’s lives by driving unlicensed. “Ignition will be a vital online resource, enabling young people across Victoria access support to prepare for their learner permit test in a convenient environment, whether it be in their home, library or school,” said Ms Carter. “It’s perfect for those living in remote areas who might have difficulty accessing services, as well as those in migrant and Indigenous communities who might be struggling to obtain their permit. “Most importantly, the program should help cut the road toll and assist young people obtain their license so they can better access employment opportunities and increase their community participation,” she said. TAC Road Safety Manager Samantha Cockfield said young drivers represent 27 per cent of those killed on our roads and are more at risk because they lack driving experience and take more risks. “Recent TAC research also shows new arrivals to Australia are often challenged by language barriers, lack of experience in motorised society and not having had a licence previously,” said Ms Cockfield. “Ignition will help both this group and young drivers get a better start to their driving career,” she said. More information about Ignition can be found at www.maignition.com.au Media contact: Rachael Nightingale at Fenton Communications on (03) 9600 0006 or 0449881980, rachael@fenton.com.au |
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