Driver training brings freedom for young refugees

Getting a driver's licence opens the world for all young people—but even more so for young refugees.

Young refugees and humanitarian entrants are often the first in their families to seek out the possibility of getting their licence. Yet costs can be prohibitive because there are no family members to help in the driver training.

The department has funded a program for subsidised driving lessons in South Australia, for about 50 young refugee and humanitarian entrants. They come from countries in Africa, the Middle East and South East Asia.

Gordana Curcic from the department's South Australian office said when the young refugee and humanitarian entrants received their licences, they were able to help other family members by taking them shopping, and to medical appointments and social activities.

'Not only can they assist their families, but once they have their licence, it helps them to get a job and join in the social fabric of Australia more effectively,' she said.

Gordana said it usually took longer than normal for the young refugee and humanitarian entrants to get their licences.

'You have to remember that some of them had never even been in a car before they began the journey to Australia,' she said.

'Our feedback indicates they are incredibly grateful for the driver training assistance.'

The young people are also offered a number of workshops that cover further training in obtaining their learners permit, driver safety and awareness, and how to buy and maintain a first car.