Learner driver training laws overhauled to stop corruption and predators

The most significant driver training law changes in the state’s history are being introduced to stamp out cost-gouging and sexually predatory behaviour by instructors.

P-plate driver tests to be overhauled to stamp out corruption, predatory behaviour and cost-gouging.

P-plate driver tests will be overhauled in a bid to stamp out corruption, sexually predatory behaviour by instructors and cost-gouging for lessons.

Hailed as the most significant driver training reforms in the state’s history by Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis, the proposed new laws follow The Advertiser’s revelations in 2022 of dodgy industry practices.

The key change would be practical driving tests for car licences conducted by government examiners, rather than private operators.

This is designed to end price gouging by private instructors and examiners using the so-called logbook method, some of whom have extorted families by demanding unnecessary lessons for their child to get their licence.

The proposed law will be key change to practical driving tests or car licences conducted by government examiners, rather than private operators. Picture: istock

More than 20 per cent of the state’s driving instructors and examiners have been sanctioned for inappropriate or criminal behaviour in the past eight years – a total of 137 disciplinary actions involving 125 people.

This includes 12 authorised examiners/instructors who have been convicted on multiple counts of charges including sexual offences, bribery, fraud and corruption.

Mr Koutsantonis said driver training for Class C licences would continue to be delivered by private operators but they would be required to comply with higher industry standards.

The logbook method, or competency based training assessment, would be changed to require learner drivers to pass a practical test with a government examiner.

The median price charged for current test is $319, with some examiners charging $400 or more. The prescribed government fee will now be $240.

Mandatory cameras and GPS will be required in all driver training vehicles, in a bid to protect both students and instructors.

“These are the most significant reforms that any government has made to the driver

training industry in South Australia,” Mr Koutsantonis said.

“The changes will create a safer environment for learner drivers and drivers, while

cleaning up the corruption, misconduct and low standards in the industry.

“A competent driver training industry will lead to more skilled, competent and safer

motorists on our roads, improving safety for everyone.”

Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis said instructors must adhere to higher industry standards. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Morgan Sette

SA has 609 registered motor driving instructors, of which 266 are also authorised examiners.

It is expected about 40 government examiner roles will be required across the state to conduct the Class C licence tests.

Under legislation tabled in state parliament on Thursday, other proposed changes include:

DRIVING instructors required to demonstrate good character, provide evidence of medical fitness and have enhanced practical driving and theory tests.

FEES, payments and services information disclosed in writing by instructors.

BEHAVIOUR standards formalised in a code of practice, with sanctions for breaches.

The reforms follow an Infrastructure and Transport Department review in the industry, commissioned after a 2022 Advertiser report revealed corruption risks and dodgy behaviour, including accepting bribes, issuing licences when driving competency had not been demonstrated and engaging in inappropriate behaviour with minors.

Originally published as Learner driver training laws overhauled to stop corruption and predators