Following a strong push from local Nationals MP, Tim Bull, East Gippsland’s aspiring drivers will have the opportunity to complete their Learner Permit driving test on line.
Mr Bull raised the matter in Parliament late last year, given every other state was achieving this and the Minister provide a response that he would look into the matter.
“Regional Victoria experienced an eye watering backlog, following the suspension of licence testing last year - unless you were successful in obtaining a hardship exemption, Mr Bull said.
“The cancellation for testing both learner and probationary drivers hampered plans for many young people in my electorate last year and I was overwhelmed by the number of parents and students who contacted my office, impacted by the suspension.
“The simple solution was to transition the theory computer-based hazard perception testing program for both learners and probationary permits, to an online COVID safe platform, which is already delivered in various states across Australia.
“I am pleased to see the Minister saw sense to adapt to this available technology.
“A driver’s licence is crucial for people living in rural and regional Victoria where public transport is virtually non-existent – they need a licence to be able to get to and from work or seek employment.”
“A lot of our young people were directly impacted by the suspension and were very patient waiting for testing to resume.
“As soon as testing resumed, local VicRoads testers did an excellent job to facilitate those waiting in the exceptionally long queue.
“I am hopeful that having the online testing platform will mitigate future testing backlogs that may be experienced, should another pandemic related lockdown occur.”
In a staged testing program, 500 Gippsland learners with an existing booking will complete their tests. The roll out will expand to facilitate 1,000 tests per week for applicants with existing bookings from May 1 and the wider roll out occurring in late June for new bookings.
For more information on how to access the Learner Permit Test Online, visit vicroads.vic.gov.au.
