Hon Alan Cadby questions the efficacy of the Graduated Driving Test, seeking data on failure rates before and after its implementation, reasons for any differences, and the impact of driving school versus private instruction. The Minister acknowledges increased failure rates, attributes them to inadequate preparation, and states the system is under review.

AnsweredQoN 737Legislative Council
Asked
8 May 2003
Portfolio
Planning and Infrastructure

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the Graduated Driving Test, and enquire as to the efficacy of this new testing process. Can the Minister please advise -
(1) Prior to the introduction of the new testing process, what was the failure rates of individuals attempting their drivers licence on the first, second and third attempts?
(2) After the introduction of the new testing process, what was the failure rates of individuals attempting their drivers licence on the first, second and third attempts?
(3) If there is a differential between these two failure rates, can the Minister provide a reason for this?
(4) What percentage of the individuals that fail on the first attempt go to a licensed driving school, as opposed to those that are privately taught?
(5) Will the Minister take any action to change the requirements for driver education based on this statistic?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
24 June 2003
Responded by
Parliamentary Secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure
Response time
47 days
2. First attempt 46%, second attempt 42%, third attempt 43%. 3. The Practical Driving Assessment introduced in March 1999 as part of the Graduated Driver Training and Licensing System (‘GDT&L’) is competency based and requires learners to demonstrate initiative and practical driving skills to perform a series of exercises. The revised test differs substantially from the previous one, focussing on the learner’s ability to perform manoeuvres rather than the extent to which they make mistakes. The assessment provides a more realistic evaluation of the driver’s skills thereby ensuring that they are competent to control a vehicle safely prior to commencing Phase 2 of the GDT&L System. One reason for the increased failure rate can be attributed to candidates not properly preparing themselves for the assessment. 4. No information is available at present although I have asked the Department to begin collecting this information. 5. The GDT&L System is being evaluated and all components will be reviewed. The system may be subject to changes and improvements, depending on the outcome of the evaluation. However, I remain committed to a system that produces well trained, competent and safe drivers rather than necessarily reducing the standard to assist the poorly prepared or unsafe driver.
3. The Practical Driving Assessment introduced in March 1999 as part of the Graduated Driver Training and Licensing System (‘GDT&L’) is competency based and requires learners to demonstrate initiative and practical driving skills to perform a series of exercises. The revised test differs substantially from the previous one, focussing on the learner’s ability to perform manoeuvres rather than the extent to which they make mistakes. The assessment provides a more realistic evaluation of the driver’s skills thereby ensuring that they are competent to control a vehicle safely prior to commencing Phase 2 of the GDT&L System. One reason for the increased failure rate can be attributed to candidates not properly preparing themselves for the assessment. 4. No information is available at present although I have asked the Department to begin collecting this information. 5. The GDT&L System is being evaluated and all components will be reviewed. The system may be subject to changes and improvements, depending on the outcome of the evaluation. However, I remain committed to a system that produces well trained, competent and safe drivers rather than necessarily reducing the standard to assist the poorly prepared or unsafe driver.
One reason for the increased failure rate can be attributed to candidates not properly preparing themselves for the assessment. 4. No information is available at present although I have asked the Department to begin collecting this information. 5. The GDT&L System is being evaluated and all components will be reviewed. The system may be subject to changes and improvements, depending on the outcome of the evaluation. However, I remain committed to a system that produces well trained, competent and safe drivers rather than necessarily reducing the standard to assist the poorly prepared or unsafe driver.
4. No information is available at present although I have asked the Department to begin collecting this information. 5. The GDT&L System is being evaluated and all components will be reviewed. The system may be subject to changes and improvements, depending on the outcome of the evaluation. However, I remain committed to a system that produces well trained, competent and safe drivers rather than necessarily reducing the standard to assist the poorly prepared or unsafe driver.
5. The GDT&L System is being evaluated and all components will be reviewed. The system may be subject to changes and improvements, depending on the outcome of the evaluation. However, I remain committed to a system that produces well trained, competent and safe drivers rather than necessarily reducing the standard to assist the poorly prepared or unsafe driver.

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