New app to help learner drivers

THE state government is making it easier for families to help their children become safer drivers, launching a new app that allows learner drivers to digitally log their driving hours.

The new app and accompanying website will mean families can throw away inconvenient old paper log books, giving them a better way to record and manage learner drivers’ hours behind the wheel. Minister for Roads and Road Safety Jaala Pulford last month launched the myLearners app, which allows learners and supervising drivers to log their driving hours on a smartphone or tablet, and track their progress.

Supervisors will be able to approve driving hours directly through the app or a computer with no need for an additional paper log book.

The app will also encourage young drivers to use a purpose-built website to help them progressively organise driving sessions that match their experience.

myLearners was successfully trialled by 63 learner drivers and 59 supervisors from around the state in September and October to improve the operation of the app.

The app includes a range of features, including reminders for both learners and supervisors to put their phones away while driving.

This project has been funded through TAC’s young driver program as part of the state government’s $146 million Young Driver Safety Package, which aims to reduce road trauma among young people.

“Young drivers are among the most vulnerable people using our road,” Ms Pulford said.

“The app will help learners and their supervisors better manage their driving practice and develop safe driving behaviours when they get on the road.”

VicRoads director of service strategy and innovation Jill Fitzroy said myLearners would make it simple for learners to track their driving experience, and provide vital information at all stages of driving to keep them safer on Victorian roads and start them on the right track to drive solo.