The L2P Program has been changing lives in Greater Geelong for more than 15 years and now it will make an even more significant impact right here in Ocean Grove.
A dedicated L2P vehicle is now stationed in Ocean Grove giving young learners better access to supervised driving – thanks to a partnership between the City of Greater Geelong, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and local Lions Clubs, together with Leopold Community Bank.
The L2P Program helps learner drivers aged 16 to 21 (and in some cases up to 23), who don’t have access to a suitable car or supervising driver, to reach the 120 hours of supervised driving required to obtain their probationary licence.
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, but it’s not an easy path for many young people.
That’s where L2P steps in, pairing L-platers with volunteer mentors who generously give their time to help young drivers gain confidence and experience on the road.
Ocean Grove now has five learners and seven mentors actively involved in the program and, with the arrival of a new Kia Rio, more young people will have the chance to get behind the wheel.
Previously, the closest car was more than 20 minutes away. Having a vehicle stationed in Ocean Grove makes the program more accessible and ensures more young people on the Bellarine can participate.
The L2P Program is funded by the TAC, administered by the Department of Transport and Planning and coordinated by the City.
The program is also built on strong community partnerships.
The new L2P car in Ocean Grove has been made possible thanks to the support of the Leopold, Ocean Grove-Barwon Heads, Portarlington-Drysdale and Queenscliff-Point Lonsdale Lions Clubs, and Community Bank Leopold.
Last financial year, 202 learner drivers participated in the L2P Program across Greater Geelong, with 56 successfully obtaining their probationary licences.
Of course, the success of the L2P Program wouldn’t be possible without our incredible volunteer mentors.
They do more than just supervise and teach learners to drive – they provide encouragement, patience and guidance.
Teaching a young person to drive is about more than learning road rules; it’s about building their independence and confidence.
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a mentor, now is the perfect time to get involved.
The City of Greater Geelong is seeking more volunteers, and even a few hours a week can greatly impact a young person’s future.
With the new car in Ocean Grove, we’re opening even more doors for our young people, ensuring they can become safe, confident drivers.
Here’s to many more years of success and to the learners who are now one step closer to achieving their independence.
For more information, visit geelongaustralia.com.au and search for ‘L2P’.
