Change to TAC L2P program to drive future success
Published on 29 February 2024
The Banyule Nillumbik Local Learning Employment Network will get behind the wheel of the Nillumbik TAC L2P Program from July, with Council continuing to play an active role as a key partner.
The experienced not-for-profit organisation (BNLLEN) will take over the delivery of the program for young learner drivers, following a decision by Council this week.
The TAC L2P Program provides young people aged 16-21 who do not have access to a supervising driver or appropriate vehicle to gain the required driving experience to obtain their probationary licence.
The program matches participants with volunteer mentor drivers, who assist them in learning to drive and gaining the number of hours needed before being able to apply for a driver’s licence.
With Council’s contract to deliver the program expiring at the end of June, combined with the changes to the eligibility criteria, Council made the decision this week to transition the service to BNLLEN.
BNLLEN already has significant experience in operating the City of Banyule’s L2P Program, and approached Council to operate the service.
Mayor Ben Ramcharan said there would be no changes to the program for participants or volunteers.
“This is a great program that helps young people to drive. The program will remain the same and we look forward to working with BNLLEN to continue to provide this service to the Nillumbik community,” Cr Ramcharan said.
“BNLLEN is a fantastic organisation and we have a very good relationship with them. They do amazing work for the community and I think the program will be very safe in their hands.”
Cr Ramcharan said BNLLEN was better placed to provide a more cost-effective and efficient L2P program for Nillumbik’s young people.
“Council will continue to be actively involved in supporting the delivery of the program including the donation of two L2P vehicles and one of our staff will continue chairing the steering committee,” Cr Ramcharan said.
“Volunteers will be able to transition across to the new operators, continuing their volunteer work in Nillumbik. Our L2P mentors are highly valued and we greatly appreciate all the time they put into this program.”
BNLLEN Executive Officer Meri Ivanovska said the organisation was looking forward to enhancing its long-standing partnership with Council and supporting the delivery of a vital service.
“BNLLEN will continue the quality support and service provided to local young people in Nillumbik, having over a decade of experience running the Banyule L2P Program,” Meri Ivanovska said.
“As an organisation, BNLLEN has been working across the region for over 20 years to improve further education, training, and employment outcomes for young people.
“We are looking forward to supporting young people of Nillumbik to achieve their Probationary Licence, which will then lead and support them to take up important opportunities in further education, training and/or employment.”
For more information about the Nillumbik TAC L2P Program, visit the Nillumbik Youth website.