Improvements to WA graduated licensing system welcomed

RAC has welcomed the WA Government’s announcement of changes to the graduated licensing system for cars, and the upcoming consultation for motorcycles.

In its submission to the Review of the Western Australian Graduated Licensing System (car license), RAC called for an increase to at least 80 hours of supervised driving, an extension of the minimum learner period from six to 12 months, an extension of the provisional period from two to three years, and the introduction of online theory and hazard perception tests.

The WA Government has now adopted all of these measures.

RAC Head of Communications Rhys Heron said the changes would deliver important road safety improvements.

“For several years, RAC has highlighted the need to strengthen the graduated licensing system to help address the devastating rate of deaths and serious injuries on WA roads,” Mr Heron said.

“We know more time spent in the learner phase, and more time learning under supervision across a wide range of conditions, can help reduce the risk of crashes for young and inexperienced drivers.”

“These are important and welcome changes that will bring real road safety benefits, and we look forward to engaging with the WA Government as part of the future implementation process.”

The WA Government has also announced that consultation on reform to WA’s motorcycle graduated licensing system will commence next month. RAC will be making a submission to that process.

ENDS