Young drivers in regional NSW are to be given cash incentives to help buy newer, safer vehicles under a Transport for NSW (TfNSW) pilot program.
Announcing the Safer Cars for Country Kids program, TfNSW said the program would help move young drivers into regional NSW in newer and safer vehicles by providing a $5,000 subsidy for up to 1,000 drivers.
“The program will begin later this year with a trial for up to 50 young people, providing feedback before it is rolled out to more regional areas across the State,” TfNSW said.
Welcoming the initiative, the Minister for Regional NSW, Paul Toole said the program recognised that young drivers were much more likely to inherit the old family car, or buy an older, cheaper or less safe vehicle as their first car.
“Every parent wants to know their kids are in the safest possible car when they head off down the road, especially in the regions where they are driving longer distances and dealing with additional challenges like dust and roos,” Mr Toole said.
“This landmark trial will provide a helping hand to young drivers to buy a safer set of wheels – and give their families greater confidence in their safety every time they’re on the road.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Sam Farraway said the average age of vehicles in NSW was 10 years, and it took longer for newer cars with better safety technology to filter out to younger drivers, especially those in regional areas.
“If we want young people to really benefit from this program then we have to get it right, and this trial will provide us feedback on what works and what doesn’t,” Mr Farraway said.
“If you’re under the age of 25, drive a car with a used car safety rating of 1 or 2 stars, or are unrated and over 16-years-old, you may be eligible to participate in the program and upgrade to a safer vehicle.”
Information on how to choose a safe vehicle can be accessed at this PS News link.
