(L-R) Cindy Moore Team Leader Devonport – CVGT Employment, Evie Lintner Youth Coach Fit for Work – Youth, Family & Community Connections, Graham Marshall Operations Manager Youth, Family & Community Connections
(L-R) Cindy Moore Team Leader Devonport – CVGT Employment, Evie Lintner Youth Coach Fit for Work – Youth, Family & Community Connections, Graham Marshall Operations Manager Youth, Family & Community Connections

Driving Confidence: Supporting young Tasmanians through Learner Driver Workshops

Youth, Family and Community Connections Inc. (YFCC) is a not-for-profit organisation based in North-West Tasmania, operating from six primary sites across Burnie, Devonport and Launceston. With a vision for a resilient and engaged community, YFCC provides a wide range of services including youth accommodation, drug and alcohol counselling, youth programs, family supports and employment initiatives. Their mission is to empower individuals and families to participate positively in their communities and seek meaningful change.

Partnering for progress

Through the support of the 2024 CVGT Employment Community Grants program, (YFCC) is delivering a targeted driver training initiative for young people aged 16 to 25. This program is designed to help participants prepare for and complete their Learner Driver’s Test, a key milestone toward gaining independence and accessing employment and education opportunities.

The initiative aligns with the goals of our 2024 Community Grants program, which supports projects that build skills, confidence and career pathways for young people. Delivered in both Devonport and Burnie, the workshops are facilitated by accredited trainers and tailored to meet the needs of participants who may face barriers such as limited online access, low literacy, learning difficulties or a preference for face-to-face learning.

This program complements YFCC’s broader employment services, including the Fit For Work Program and the North-West Driver Mentor Program, which helps young people complete the 80 hours of supervised driving required to sit their P1 test. which supports young people in completing the required 80 hours of supervised driving to sit their P1 test. By tackling one of the most common barriers to employment, obtaining a driver’s licence, YFCC is providing practical, hands-on support where it’s needed most.

About the learner driver workshops

Thanks to the support of the CVGT Employment Community Grant, three series of workshops, totalling 18 sessions, will be delivered in both Devonport and Burnie by accredited trainers. Each group will consist of up to five participants, ensuring personalised attention and support. The workshops are structured as follows:

  • Workshops 1 to 4: Road rules, road signage, road safety and a mock learners test
  • Workshop 5: Online first aid awareness course to help young drivers develop lifesaving skills
  • Workshop 6: Introduction to the MoneySmart Cars App, covering vehicle purchasing, finance options, servicing and running costs, registration and changeover fees

Following the workshops, participants will receive individual support to complete the paper-based Learners Test.

The workshops are part of the Tasmania State Government’s Plates Plus Program and reflect YFCC’s commitment to inclusive, community-based solutions

Addressing barriers to employment through a strong and ongoing partnership

YFCC and CVGT Employment have maintained a collaborative relationship for over four years. CVGT staff regularly refer job seekers into YFCC programs, helping them access specialist supports to overcome complex barriers to employment. This includes referrals into the North West Driver Mentor Program, which has proven to be a vital resource for young people in the region.

CVGT staff have also participated in YFCC employment events, building strong networks and sharing resources to better support job seekers. The 2024 Community Grant further strengthens this partnership, enabling both organisations to continue delivering impactful, community-based solutions.

The learner driver initiative is a powerful example of how the CVGT Employment Community Grants program is helping to create real opportunities for young people across Tasmania. By supporting YFCC’s work, CVGT Employment is investing in the future of local youth, helping them gain independence, confidence and access to meaningful employment.

CVGT Employment’s 2024 Community Grants program

Our 2024 Community Grants program is specifically focused on youth career support.

Together, we are investing in a brighter, more resilient future, one young person at a time.

Learn more about our 2024 Community Grant program and recipients here.

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