Victoria is the only state in Australia that has a minimum age of 18, while other states have a minimum age of 17, or 16 and a half in the Northern Territory.
Echuca Moama driving instructor Paul McManus supports changing the age, stating that 17-year-olds have jobs they need to drive to and the one-year difference doesn’t impact their driving skills.
According to Mr McManus, all states should have the same minimum age.
“I don’t think there are cons in reducing the age,” he said.
“There are so many differences between Vic and NSW, there should be a national standard.”
The push to lower the minimum age for probationary licences is not a new issue.
In 2017, a parliamentary committee inquiry recommended Victoria lower the age to 17 and in May 23, 2023, state Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien also launched a petition.
The most recent petition is being sponsored by state Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad.
The petition notes that young people living in rural and regional areas with limited or no public transport are disadvantaged.
It also emphasises that not everyone has access to people who can drive them around.
Ms Broad said that lowering the age would benefit young Victorians throughout the state.
“I have been contacted by people across the state keen to see the law changed in Victoria,” she said.
“For young people who have done the hours of training and are ready to drive safely on their own, a driver’s licence opens doors to educational and employment opportunities, access to health services, to engage in community events and sports and to help others.”
The petition will close on April 30 and can be signed at parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/petitions/reduce-probationary-driving-age/
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