The Value of Driver Training *KEYNOTE*

Teresa Senserrick Western Australian Centre for Road Safety Research, University of Western Australia 

Teresa Senserrick, PhD, presented a compelling session on enhancing road safety through improved driver training practices. She emphasised the importance of addressing learner diversity, higher-order instruction, and long-term safety goals.

Key Highlights:

• Crash Risk Factors: Young drivers face heightened risks due to inexperience, lifestyle factors, and cognitive development challenges, such as poor hazard perception and risky decision-making.
• Higher-Order Instruction: Coaching approaches that focus on hazard perception, self-regulation, and resilience can significantly reduce crash rates and promote lifelong safe driving habits.
• Neurodivergent Support: Tailored accommodations like clear instructions, anxiety management, and familiarisation with instructors can greatly improve the driving test experience for neurodivergent learners.
• Technology Integration: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are reshaping training, requiring instructors to adapt and stay informed.

Teresa also stressed the value of building stronger relationships between instructors, learners, and their families. By fostering trust and communication, instructors can help learners build confidence, develop better decision-making skills, and embrace safe driving practices that last a lifetime. Her insights highlighted the need for a personalised and empathetic approach to driver training.

This session highlighted the need for personalised, innovative training to prepare all learners for safer roads and long-term success.

Practical Strategies: Neurodiversity, Mental Health and Driver Education

Beth Cheal, Institute of Driver Health, joined by Rehab Trainers Dean McMillan and Bill Karkoulas

Dr Beth Cheal, an occupational therapy driving assessor, presented on the unique challenges and opportunities for supporting neurodivergent drivers. 

Key Highlights:

Challenges for Neurodivergent Drivers:

• Slower information processing and attention shifting.
• Difficulty with social cues, sensory issues, and emotional regulation.
• Impulsivity and reduced reaction times.

Effective Driver Training Strategies:

• Avoid overwhelming learners with too much information or emotional reactions.
• Use calm, patient, and consistent communication.
• Break tasks into single steps with repetitive practice and immediate feedback.
• Refer to occupational therapy driving assessors for additional support when needed.

Post-Licence Support:

• Encourage strategies like route planning, avoiding distractions, and confidence-boosting lessons.
• Suggest tools like communication cards to manage anxiety or overstimulation.

Dr Cheal’s presentation reinforced the importance of understanding neurodivergent needs and adapting teaching methods to ensure success and safety for all learners.

TMR - Regulator Update

Darren Minehan & Brendan Speirs

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) shared updates on key initiatives aimed at improving road safety and supporting the driver training industry. The session provided valuable insights into how TMR is fostering innovation, inclusion, and collaboration across Queensland.

PrepL Program and Supervisor Initiative

• The PrepL program, launched in 2019, offers an accessible online alternative to traditional road rules tests.
• 95% pass rate with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
• Equips learners and supervisors with essential road safety knowledge.
• The free PrepL Supervisor program has driven a 201% increase in enrolments, expanding its reach and impact.

Digital Licence Integration

• Starting in 2025, driving instructors will be able to manage their industry credentials via the Digital Licence app.
• Provides real-time updates and secure, seamless verification.
• Streamlines credential management with a focus on convenience and security.

Accessibility and Inclusion in Driving Tests

• TMR is trialing new measures to make driving tests more inclusive for learners with conditions such as anxiety, autism, or language barriers.
• Adjustments include allowing observers in the vehicle or offering extra preparation time.
• Early results show these changes significantly improve test experiences.

Driver Trainer Industry Nights

• Regular events across Queensland that foster collaboration between TMR and driving instructors.
• Updates and discussions on accreditation fees, road safety, and testing wait times.
• A platform for transparency and addressing industry concerns.

This presentation underscored TMR’s dedication to fostering safer roads and creating a more inclusive, efficient driver training ecosystem.

TfNSW - Regulator Update

Meagan Felton & Katie Davis-hall-watson

Meagan Felton - Regulation and Compliance for Safer Roads
Meagan Felton, Senior Manager of Licence Programs at Transport for NSW, provided a compelling overview of how driver training and licensing are regulated to enhance road safety.

She highlighted the department's collaboration with driving instructors and industry stakeholders to strengthen road safety education and ensure compliance.

Key takeaways from Meagan’s presentation included:

• A rise in new instructor licenses and Safer Drivers Course participation.
• Areas of non-compliance, such as expired licenses and incomplete training records.
• The importance of integrating technology and streamlined pathways to maintain high training standards.

This session underscored the vital role of innovation and compliance in fostering safer roads for all.

Katie Davis-Hall-Watson - Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) Online
Katie Davis-Hall-Watson introduced the Driver Knowledge Test (DKT) Online, a groundbreaking initiative launched in July 2024.

This online platform modernises the learner licensing process, allowing participants to complete a four-hour interactive course and test from home.

Highlights of the program include:

• Accessibility features like text-to-speech, simplified Chinese, and mobile-friendly design.
• Structured modules on driving attitude, sharing the road, and road signs and rules.
• A $55 fee covering unlimited attempts and tailored support for diverse learning needs.

Since launch, the platform has enrolled over 83,000 learners, with 95% rating it 4 or 5 stars.

This initiative not only improves understanding of road safety but also makes the licensing process more inclusive and convenient.

 

Thriving in the Digital Age: Digital Solutions to drive improvement in your business 

Dion Changuion, YLOO Drive

Dion’s presentation explored how advancements in technology are transforming the driver training industry, offering valuable insights into the future of education in this space.

Key Highlights:

Technology Benefits:

• Streamlines training processes and enhances learning outcomes.
• Provides real-time feedback to support both instructors and students.
• Improves efficiency and helps educators adapt to an evolving digital landscape.

Broader Impact on Education:

• Demonstrated how digital tools can support student progress and elevate teaching practices.
• Highlighted the potential for technology to contribute to safer roads through improved instruction.

• Inspiration for the Future:

Encouraged instructors to embrace innovative solutions and modernise their approach to driver education.

Practical Business Skills: Understanding the cost base of Driver Training and setting realistic training rates 

Mick Humphries, Elston

Mick Humphries delivered an engaging presentation that explored the critical role of professional driver educators, highlighting their impact on both communities and personal growth.

Key Highlights:

Financial Realities of the Industry:

• Addressed common costs such as fuel, insurance, and SEO.
• Encouraged instructors to reassess hourly rates to ensure profitability and sustainability.

The Deeper Purpose of Driver Education:

• Emphasised teaching essential skills early to combat complacency and improve road safety.
• Highlighted the long-term community impact and personal fulfilment that come with shaping safer roads.

Legacy and Leadership:

• Inspired attendees to reflect on their contribution to the profession and their communities.
• Reinforced the message that balancing profit with purpose is key to the industry’s success.