‘Lily’s legacy’: Buxton crash families call for P-plate laws overhaul

NSW politicians have affirmed they are willing to meet with devastated families over a potential shakeup to rules for P-plate drivers following the deaths of five teens in Buxton.

Both sides of NSW politics have indicated they’d be willing to meet with the families impacted by the horrific car crash in Buxton, amid calls for an overhaul on rules for P-plate drivers.

It comes after grieving families said they’d be open to meeting with the state’s powerbrokers in a bid to see the rules changed.

Father John Van de Putte wants to see speed limits enforced for P-platers so his daughter Lily’s death is not in vain.

“P-plate laws need to be stricter. Why can’t they have speed immobilisers, that would be a very positive start,” Mr Van de Putte said.

He also wants to see passenger limits for all P-plate drivers.

Buxton victim Lily Van De Putte was killed alongside four friends in the crash.

The tragedy shook the community and the nation.

“I think they shouldn’t be allowed to have passengers, no matter whether it’s red or green P’s … or make it just one passenger.”

After his youngest child is buried on Friday, Mr Van de Putte said he would be keen to meet with the roads Minister Natalie Ward and show her why the current laws aren‘t working.

Debris strewn across the grass from the crash. Picture: John Grainger

“This can be Lily’s legacy, some positive change on the roads so no other families go through what us and the five other families are going through,” he said.

Roads Minister Natalie Ward and Premier Dominic Perrottet both indicated they’d be willing to meet with the families over any potential law changes.

It comes after Labor called for rules for P platers to be strengthened to keep kids safe, with Labor Leader Chris Minns calling for a review into how repeat speeding offenders can keep their provisional license.

Mr Minns said he would meet with the families “when they are ready”.

People at the crash site in Buxton where five friends from Picton High School died. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“These families have gone through unimaginable tragedy and loss. A loss felt keenly by the whole Buxton community and the state,” he said.

“As a parent, I know this is our greatest fear.

“I look forward to meeting with the families when they are ready. In the meantime, we stand with them in mourning this tragic loss”.

Tyrell Edwards, 18, has been charged with five counts of driving dangerously, with police alleging he was “travelling at high speed” on East Parade when he allegedly lost control, leading to the death of five teenagers in the vehicle.

A court heard last week Tyrell’s licence had been suspended for two three-month periods in less than 18 months.

Tyrell Edwards was the sole survivor and alleged driver of the vehicle.

The call for a review was backed by road safety campaigner Nigel Smith, whose 18 year old son died in a car crash in February.

“We can certainly put everything on the table and, and have a look at all the different suggestions,” he said.

Mr Smith has launched a petition calling for P platers to be banned from carrying passengers for their first 12 months of driving.