Action: Filming gets underway in Norlane this week for a migrant pedestrian safety campaign.
By John Van Klaveren
GEELONG’S migrants face particular challenges understanding road rules, according to an RACV spokesperson.
Road user behaviour manager Melinda Congiu said new TAC research had highlighted road safety issues facing migrants.
The research found that many migrants needed three or more attempts to gain learner’s permits or probationary licences.
Ms Congiu said only half of migrants reported getting help to obtain a licence. But a new road safety initiative was aimed at helping migrants gain experience and training on the road, she said.
“The RACV New Arrivals Road Safety Program offers funding to community groups supporting new migrants.”
Ms Congiu said the funding could help pay for lessons with professional instructors, tuition for volunteer drivers supervising migrants and road safety information sessions.
“We found that mobility and licensing are the key issues faced by new arrivals as they attempt to integrate within their new communities,” Ms Congiu said.
“Driving lessons are important however the cost is often a barrier.”
The TAC-supported program invites community groups conducting road safety programs for new arrivals to apply for funding.
Successful groups will be able to use the funding to complement existing road safety programs with driving lessons or information sessions with accredited RACV driving instructors.
“It’s a practical way of giving new migrants the skills and driving experience they need to obtain their licence and help them become integrated into their new community,” Ms Congiu said.
Carmel Carol, who coordinates a migrant driver program for Geelong multicultural services provider Diversitat, said the organisation would apply for funding.
“Migrants can’t afford to have many lessons and many come from a non-motorised country, so there’s a lot to learn.”
