


The Safer Vehicles Intervention Program (SVIP)
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SDIP is a 1-day classroom-based program and focuses on educating young drivers on vehicle safety technology and the importance of driving a safer vehicles.
Methods used in the program include, class discussion, PowerPoint presentations, Learners' workbooks, games and activities, videos, and online activities.
The key outcomes of this program are to ensure that the participants understand what constitutes the responsibilities of driving a safe vehicle, the components of purchasing a safe vehicle to and how to maintain a safe vehicle. This program aims to raise awareness of the importance of vehicle safety and improving vehicle safety knowledge.
Early vehicle safety education is critical to reducing road trauma in young people by educating them on:
- Responsibilities of owning a vehicle
- Vehicle safety standards and ratings
- Choosing and maintaining a vehicle
We understand the need for interactive supported learning which consistently achieves best outcomes for young people experiencing social disadvantage.
Methods used in the program include: Class discussion, Power Point presentations, Learners workbook, games and activities, videos and online practice tests. A key outcome for this program is to ensure that the participants understand the coomplexities of choosing a safe vehicle.
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Benefits of Making Safer Vehicle Choices
In August 2020, Vehicle Safety Research Group (VSRG), completed research on the Potential Road Safety Benefits of Making Safer Vehicle Choices in Australia and New Zealand
The aim of this study was to estimate the current potential road safety benefits of optimising safer vehicle choices.
The “Research Project Summary Report” shows that vehicle safety improvements have made a major contribution to reducing road trauma over the last 15 years. This research shows that there is still substantial untapped potential for safer vehicle choices to contribute even further to achieving road trauma reductions.
The research findings show a significant potential for reducing road trauma in Australia and New Zealand through encouraging safer vehicle choices.
These results highlight the importance of influencing levers to improve safer vehicle choices including potential programs or incentives to encourage safer vehicle choices
This study has shown significant savings in fatalities and serious injuries from road crashes are possible through safer vehicle choices.
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Safer Vehicles Program
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‘Road to Solo Driving’ handbook
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Interactive activities
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Changing Gears video’s
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Practice tests
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VicRoads learner permit tests
Who we support
We encourage agencies to have between 8 – 15 people per group. Participants need to be aged 15 and above.
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Needs of the Community
Early road safety education has shown to produce positive driving attitudes in learner drivers, as well as developing their critical thinking. On the completion of a CGP, most students find they can start on road practice with their parents/home supervisors.
Insights into chossing a safe vehicle will contribute the reduction of fatlaities in young people according to the data mention above.
Gaining these insights through attendance of the SVIP gives the community a sense of confidence in the safety of their young people.
The SVIP has many benefits, including:
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Opening doors to opportunities such as independence, community participation and employment as many jobs require a driving licence.
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Enabling people from rural and regional Victoria to access this program and gain these skills and benefits.
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Community and social inclusion for people isolated by distance. For many this may be the first steps into gaining independence and becoming involved in social or community activities.
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Participating in this program and learning rules and responsibilities, contributes to road safety for all road users
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Not having to rely on public transport and the convenience of being able to go wherever and whenever required, is empowering.
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The skill and awareness that comes from driving is applicable to many real-life situations.

Project monitoring and evaluation
The intention of the program is for participants to achieve an understanding of the need for be a safe road user and to obtain their learner permit. Continual assessment of learning outcomes and participants feedback will contribute to the development of Changing Gears Program.
Average of 93% Pass rate
Evidence of community engagement/partnerships to support program delivery
The effectiveness of the program is evidenced by the success rate and feedback from organisations that have engaged the program
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