General News
1 July, 2025
Age for license petition
Locals can have their say on reducing Victoria’s minimum probationary driver’s licence age through a parliamentary petition.
The petition calls on the Labor Government to reduce the licence age from 18 to 17, in line with every other Australian state.
Member for Lowan and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Emma Kealy said lowering the age was consistent with recommendations from the findings of a Parliamentary committee inquiry in 2017, but Labor had been unwilling to consider the matter further.
“In regional and rural areas like ours with such limited public transport options, allowing responsible young people to drive from a younger age would have a huge impact on them and their families in terms of education, employment and social outcomes,” she said.
“For young people who have done the training and are ready to drive safely on their own, a driver’s licence opens doors to education and job opportunities, access to health services, the ability to engage in community events and sports, and the chance to help others."
Ms Kealy said safety is crucial, and training is vitally important to ensure our young people are ready for the responsibility of driving solo.
“That’s why the Nationals are also calling for the government to consider driver training programs like those used in New South Wales, where completing safe driving courses or undertaking professional lessons can earn learner drivers hours of credit towards the 120 hours that are needed to apply for a probationary licence," she explained.
The petition is open until October 1, and is available at parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/reduce-probationary-driving-age/