When Sawyer signed up to the Salvation Army's Drive for Life program in Kalgoorlie, he held a learner's permit but had never driven a car.
Sawyer is on the autism spectrum. The Drive for Life program, funded by Driving Access and Equity Program, provided him with an instructor who was willing to progress at a comfortable pace.
During his initial lessons, Sawyer struggled with the steering wheel shuffle, but his instructor remained encouraging as he adjusted to being behind the wheel.
The first few lessons took place in a parking lot to help build Sawyer’s confidence and trust. Once he felt ready to hit the roads, he encountered new challenges. Despite this, Sawyer and his Drive for Life instructor continued to tailor their learning approaches throughout the lessons. With consistent support and practice, Sawyer gradually gained a better understanding of driving.
When it was time for his Practical Driving Assessment (PDA), the local DTMI service centre in Kalgoorlie proactively accommodated Sawyer's disability. They collaborated with his Drive for Life instructor to understand his specific needs and how to best assist him during the test. Sawyer successfully passed his PDA on his first attempt. Amazing work Sawyer!
