The ACT Government will offer a five-hour discount to learner drivers who complete a first aid course from their 100-hour requirement of supervised driving, transport minister Chris Steel announced today.
“This free 30-minute online first aid course will provide new drivers with basic first aid skills to respond to road injuries if they’re the first on scene at a road traffic collision,” Mr Steel said.
“This training won’t just provide the skills that could save a life, it is a reminder to the next generation of drivers of the serious consequences that crashes have on our roads.”
The new free e-learning course is run by St John Ambulance Australia. The ACT Government will encourage learner drivers to complete it under the ACT’s Graduated Licensing Scheme.
Senior Australian of the Year Val Dempsey stated earlier this year that the government should teach Canberrans first aid as they learn to drive.
“I couldn’t think of a stronger incentive for learner drivers to equip themselves with these basic, lifesaving skills,” Ms Dempsey said. “I’m so grateful that Minister Steel and the ACT Government has taken this important step and hope that other states and territories follow.”
“Over many years, Val has advocated to save more lives through first aid – and today marks another step towards her goal,” Mr Steel said.
“This First Aid for Learner Driver program wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for Val’s tireless efforts and commitment.”
The ACT Government will fund Queensland University of Technology to formally evaluate the course, under the ACT Road Safety Fund. The evaluation will investigate whether the first aid course could be expanded across Australia and whether the training should be mandatory for all learner drivers.
“It’s so good to see the ACT Government taking this action on road safety – to equip an entire generation of Australians with basic lifesaving first aid skills,” Brendan Maher, CEO of St John Ambulance Australia, said.
Further information about the reduction in mandatory supervised learner driving hours will be made available in the coming months.
