Advocating change

Funding secured for Driving for Life youth road safety program

Published | 13 September 2024

We're pleased that the Tasmanian Government has confirmed funding in this year’s state budget to honour their election commitment to partner with RACT to deliver a nation-leading road safety education program.

The $8 million Driving for Life program drew support from all major parties and key independents during the last state election. The allocation of funding in yesterday’s state budget will allow us to proceed with the program’s development.

General Manager, Advocacy and Government Relations, Mel Percival, said RACT was committed to working with other road safety stakeholders to design and deliver a comprehensive road safety education program over the next five years.

“We thank the Tasmanian Government for their commitment and continued support for this important and much needed program that aims to improve road safety education and training for young Tasmanians,” Ms Percival said.

The program will:

  • Engage young drivers with practical and school-based sessions from the start.

  • Empower learner drivers and their families with the guidance they need.

  • Support disadvantaged youth to safely gain their driving hours.

The budget’s continued investment in important infrastructure also highlighted the urgent need to resolve the impasse over the Land Transport Infrastructure National Partnership Agreement.

“The budget papers make it clear that there are a range of major infrastructure projects that are contingent on Australian Government funding at the current 80:20 funding ratio.

“These projects include the East Derwent Highway, Tamar Bridge, upgrades to Wielangta Road, and improvements to Bridport Road and the Murchison and Zeehan Highways.

“We would once again urge the State and Commonwealth governments to come together to negotiate and sign a new agreement that provides funding certainty for the future.”