The majority of participants were women, some are learning English, other are caring for children and family members and a few are employed casually.
For these women, access to driving is not just a practical skill, but a critical pathway to greater independence, social connection, and opportunity. Being able to drive can significantly increase access to employment, reduce isolation, increase confidence and empowerment for settlement in Australia.
For example, Aminata who works as a cleaner is very excited to finally be able to practice with a driving instructor and pass her driver’s license.
“I have been looking everywhere to practice driving,” Aminata says.
“The Learner’s is easy because it is based on the theory, however the practice is the most difficult.”
Participants responded very positively to the program. Many shared that they particularly enjoyed learning about parking rules, understanding fines and road regulations, preventing accidents, and how to stay safe on the roads. Despite the various English levels of participants, sessions were interactive, with participants actively asking questions, sharing experiences, and supporting one another’s learning in a safe space. Creating a welcoming environment for discussion proved essential, particularly as many participants speak English as an additional language.
Importantly, the program is already demonstrating a positive impact. One participant who only resettled in Australia in December 2025 recently called program staff to announce the good news.
“I just successfully obtained my driver’s license after just five lessons, thank you so much for the lessons,” she said.
Beyond knowledge, the program has contributed to increasing participants’ sense of independence, safety, and connection to their communities. Understanding how to navigate road rules, manage fines, and access support services plays a critical role in supporting everyday mobility and inclusion.
Given the success of this initiative, staff are exploring opportunities to deliver a second round of the program later this year, continuing to build on this momentum and reach more community members.
“Driving can truly be empowering in many ways” shared another participant. “You get to be active in your community, do school drop offs, find work further from your home and feel more independent in general”.
The Settlement Program is a Community Development Program operated by Jesuit Social Services and funded by the Department of Social Services. The program seeks to support the settlement of new and emerging communities through general casework, group information sessions and referral to mainstream services and activities, using a community development and capacity building approach.
We extend our sincere thanks to all partners and participants who made this program such a success.
