Paid driving lessons a road to success

WOMENCAN Australia – a charity that assists women to reconnect with jobs and work – has received $144,000 in funding from the State Government for its Driving to Employment Program, which will support almost eighty women living in Bendigo and Shepparton to gain a probationary licence.

The program will provide each participant with over 14 paid driving lessons, allowing them around 40 hours of driving experience in varying conditions.

Research shows that lack of access to transport, including holding a drivers license, can be a barrier to women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in regional areas.

Delivered through the Government’s Flexible Local Transport Solutions Program – the initiative is expected to help women in Bendigo and Shepparton to overcome those barriers and give them a greater chance of securing ongoing employment.

WomenCAN previously received funding to support 40 women across Maribyrnong, Mildura and Bendigo to obtain their Ps.

Its CEO, Heather Saunders, said her organisation is “absolutely thrilled” to receive the “vital” funding for the Driving to Employment program.

“In regional areas like Bendigo and Shepparton, a driver’s licence isn’t just a convenience – it’s essential to financial independence,” she said.

“Our experience shows that when women overcome transport barriers, they can access better jobs, support their families, and fully participate in community life.

“This investment will transform lives by giving women the mobility, confidence and independence they need to thrive.”

Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards said the funding is about equipping women “not only with the skills to drive, but with the independence to thrive.”

Meanwhile, Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said it will “make sure more women have access to the job they want, deserve and rely on.”

Further opportunities available through WomenCAN can be found on its website.