Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania Driving Program Launches to Support Migrants and Refugees in Achieving Their Driver’s License
The Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania (MRC Tas) is proud to announce the launch of its expanded Driving Program, designed to help migrants and refugees in their first five years of settlement in Australia obtain their driver’s licenses safely and legally. The initiative has been made possible through generous funding from the Tasmanian Government.
“At MRC Tas, we understand that obtaining a driver’s license is a critical step in a migrant’s journey to successful settlement in Australia,” said MRC Tas CEO, Dr. Gillian Long.
“For many, having a license opens doors to employment, education, and full participation in the community.”
“However, getting a license requires overcoming multiple barriers, such as the cost of lessons, time for practice, understanding road rules, and language proficiency.”
The MRC Tas Driving Program is designed to address these challenges. Through Car Café drop-in sessions, which are held every Friday, clients learn road rules with the help of interpreters and volunteers. Once learners pass the knowledge test, they begin practical lessons with a driving instructor, and later benefit from supervised driving hours with a dedicated volunteer mentor.
Volunteer Driver Mentor Simon Carter, who has been a part of the program for five years, is passionate about helping others achieve their driving goals.
“Being a volunteer mentor is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’ve seen firsthand the impact this program has on people’s lives,” he said.
“One of the learners I worked with thanked me profusely and told me I had changed his life and his family’s life. That’s a moment I will never forget. I couldn’t hold back a tear. It’s moments like that that remind me of the power of this program and why I’m so passionate about it.”
In addition to the practical driving support, MRC Tas helps clients navigate financial barriers. Driving lessons are expensive, and the 10 hours of practice required before joining the program can be out of reach for many. Through No Interest Loan Schemes (NILS) and other financial assistance options, MRC Tas supports clients in accessing the resources they need to pay for the 10-hour driving lessons.
Both MRC Tas vehicles are automatic, dual-controlled, and fully insured, providing a safe learning environment for both clients and volunteers.
The Driving Program is just one example of MRC Tas’s commitment to supporting migrants and refugees as they settle in Tasmania. MRC Tas supports people to not only survive but thrive. With the support of this program, clients have the opportunity to achieve their goals, contribute to the community, and lead full, independent lives.
For more information about the MRC Tas Driving Program and how to get involved as a volunteer or mentor, please visit the MRC Tas website at mrctas.org.au.
For more information please contact, Tabitha Zachariah, MRC Tas Marketing and Fundraising Coordinator – tzachariah@mrctas.org.au / 0483 080 084