General News
2 October, 2025
Volunteers needed to help learner-drivers get licence
VOLUNTEERING is the heartbeat of strong communities.
Yet, across Australia, fewer people are volunteering than ever before.
In the past decade, the rate of volunteering has steadily declined, leaving a gap in services that make our communities safe, supportive and connected.
But Time2Drive National Joblink program coordinator and driving instructor Andrew Young said in the Far North there was an opportunity to turn that around – “by stepping up, getting involved and helping shape the kind of community we want to live in”.
“The Time2Drive learner driver mentor program, developed by National Joblink and powered by everyday community members, helps disadvantaged learner-drivers gain the supervised hours they need to achieve their licence,” he said.
“For many, a licence is not just about driving – it’s the key to accessing employment, education and a stronger connection to community life.
“Without it, too many people remain isolated and limited in opportunity.
“That’s where you can help. By volunteering as a driving mentor with Time2Drive, you don’t need to be a driving instructor – just a steady hand and a bit of time to sit alongside learners who cannot otherwise practice.
“We make sure everyone feels safe and supported: learners are assessed before they join and mentors are backed with training, guidance and ongoing support from experienced instructors and volunteers.”
Mr Young said the benefits were mutual.
Volunteers can:
Help make roads safer
Meet new people and build local connections
Enjoy flexible scheduling on their own terms
Gain new skills and experiences
Receive appreciation (and some perks) from local businesses.
Meet mutual obligation commitments with Services Australia, as Time2Drive was an approved volunteer organisation.
“Most importantly, you’ll be helping to change lives,” Mr Young said. “Our current volunteers tell us this program is one of the most rewarding things they’ve ever been part of,” he said.
“It’s simple, it’s local and it makes a real difference.
“So, if you’ve ever thought about giving back, now is the time. Together, we can reverse the decline in volunteering and strengthen the very fabric of our community.”
To find out more visit, www.bit.ly/4n9lskx
