The journey of teaching a learner driver
From confidence to country roads, our focus groups dig deep into the driving experience.
In a series of recent focus groups across Hobart, Launceston, Burnie, Wynyard and Deloraine, our Youth Road Safety Project team spoke with over 60 Tasmanians who’ve supported a learner driver.
From parents and grandparents to volunteers and instructors, each person shared their unique experiences: what worked, what didn’t and where extra support could have helped.
Many also reflected on how the process strengthened their relationships, built trust and boosted the learner's confidence both behind the wheel and in everyday life.
Some key themes emerged:
No one-size-fits-all approach: Mentors adapt based on the learner’s personality and confidence.
Urban versus regional challenges: Road conditions may differ, but the goal remains the same: building lifelong safe driving habits.
Instructor insights: Our own driver trainers shared practical tips that will help shape future support tools.
We’re now working closely with parents and young people to design and build useful support tools to help them on the learner journey, making it easier for every mentor to feel confident and supported in their role.
