Driving in Australia #
Support newcomers to understand Australia’s licensing requirements, vehicle responsibilities and available driving support so they can make informed decisions about driving.
At a glance #
- Learn your state’s driver licensing requirements before purchasing a vehicle.
- Understand the ongoing responsibilities and costs of owning a vehicle.
- Explore local opportunities for driving practice and subsidised lessons.
Learning to drive in Australia #
CSGs should direct newcomers to their relevant state or territory transport authority to understand the local requirements for obtaining a driver’s licence.
Before purchasing a vehicle, newcomers should also understand the legal responsibilities and ongoing costs of vehicle ownership, including registration, insurance and compliance with Australian road rules.
Topics such as speed limits, seatbelt laws and child car seat requirements may be unfamiliar and should be discussed early to support safe driving.
Building driving experience #
Where newcomers would like to obtain a driver’s licence, CSGs are encouraged to involve the wider community in supporting driving practice.
Some groups organise volunteer rosters so newcomers can gain the supervised driving experience required to meet local licensing requirements.
Transport summary checklist #
TRANSPORT Checklist #
- Can they use public transport independently?
- Can they purchase or top up their travel ticket or card?
- Do they know how to obtain a driver’s licence?
- Can they access driving manuals in their language?
https://communityhub.refugeesponsorship.org.au/zcs/manual/settling-in-and-the-year-ahead/article/driving-manuals - Are there any free or subsidised driving lessons available?
https://communityhub.refugeesponsorship.org.au/zcs/manual/settling-in-and-the-year-ahead/article/getting-a-drivers-license
Strengths-Based Approach #
Providing transport can be helpful in the early stages of settlement, but relying on CSG members for every journey can unintentionally create dependence.
Where possible, encourage newcomers to begin using public transport and other travel options independently as soon as they feel confident to do so. Building transport confidence is an important step towards long-term independence.
“Independent mobility helps newcomers participate confidently in work, education and community life.”
