The Safer Driver Course (SDC) is being piloted by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) as part of the Driving Access and Equity Program (DAEP).
Designed in collaboration with the WA Centre for Road Safety Research, the course aims to reduce crash risk during the first six months of solo driving. It supports novice drivers to develop safer driving attitudes, strengthen hazard awareness, and make low risk decisions in a wide range of driving situations.
The pilot commenced in July 2025, initially focusing on regional and remote locations, with ongoing consultation to ensure the course is responsive to local needs across WA.
How it works
The SDC is available to novice drivers supported by selected driver training and education providers engaged through DAEP.
Participants attend a small group course of approximately four hours, consisting of:
- Module 1: Activity based driver education in a classroom setting
- Module 2: Practical in car driving and observation
Participants must have completed approximately 10 hours of supervised log book driving and have a sound understanding of operating a vehicle.
Why it matters
Provisional drivers in their first six months of driving are at the highest risk of serious road trauma.
The SDC helps novice drivers:
- Recognise and respond to driving hazards
- Manage peer pressure and distractions
- Make safer behavioural choices behind the wheel
The course aligns with both State and National Road Safety Strategies, helping better prepare drivers before progressing to their P plates.
Safer Driver Course Pilot – Media Q&A
The Safer Driver Course pilot is an initiative delivered through the Driving Access and Equity Program to help up to 1,000 learner drivers build safer driving habits. It combines theory and practical training to improve risk awareness and decision making on the road.
Young and inexperienced drivers are over represented in crash statistics, particularly in their first six months of solo driving. This course helps novice drivers understand risks, manage peer pressure and make safer choices behind the wheel.
The pilot is available to novice drivers supported by DAEP engaged organisations. These organisations work with people who face barriers to getting a driver’s licence, including those in regional and remote areas, people on low incomes and those without access to a supervising driver or roadworthy vehicle.
It takes around three hours and includes two modules: a theory component and a practical driving component. Together, they reinforce low risk driving behaviours and build confidence.
The course is adapted from the long running NSW Safer Drivers Course, developed by independent road safety experts. DTMI has worked closely with the NSW Government, the WA Centre for Road Safety Research and NSW course providers to tailor course content and delivery for Western Australia.
The course commenced in July 2025 and is currently focused on delivery across regional and remote Western Australia through DAEP-engaged organisations.
Yes. Planning is underway to expand the pilot to Perth metropolitan DAEP-engaged organisations in 2026.
The pilot is part of a suite of road safety measures announced on 27 October 2024 to protect probationary drivers. It supports the Government’s commitment to reducing road trauma and improving access to safe, equitable licensing pathways.
Demand from DAEP engaged organisations and strong community interest led to the expansion. Increasing capacity ensures more disadvantaged novice drivers can benefit from the program.
DTMI will continue to engage with stakeholders across WA to ensure the course reflects local needs, particularly in regional and remote communities where driving conditions and challenges vary.
The goal is to improve novice drivers’ safety, awareness, confidence and decision making, ultimately reducing crashes and saving lives on WA roads.
The Safer Driver Course pilot will inform recommendations to government regarding future driver education delivery.
If you would like further information please email: saferdrivercourse@transport.wa.gov.au
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