Southern Aboriginal Corporation and McGovern Foundation welcome State Government investment in provision of practical driver’s licence support for Aboriginal people in the Great Southern

Media Statement

For release 12.00pm 25 October 2024

Southern Aboriginal Corporation (SAC) today welcomes funding, in partnership with the McGovern Foundation, from the Western Australian Government via the Department of Transport Driving Access and Equity Program (DAEP), to help reduce barriers to obtaining a driver’s licence for Aboriginal people in Albany and surrounding communities. This initiative will promote greater independence, open employment opportunities and improve access to essential services.

“Collaborating with the McGovern Foundation and the WA Government through DAEP will address critical challenges faced by our local community,” said Asha Bhat, CEO of SAC. “Access to a driver’s licence means more than mobility - it enables better access to jobs, education and services that improve people’s lives. A licence can significantly change a person’s ability to support and provide for their family.”

For many Aboriginal people, obstacles such as limited access to vehicles, instructors or financial resources have made it difficult to obtain a licence. This program will provide culturally appropriate mentoring and support throughout the licensing journey, helping participants gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

“This initiative reflects SAC’s continued commitment to empowering Aboriginal communities by creating meaningful opportunities and addressing service gaps,” Asha added.

Andrew McGovern, founder of the McGovern Foundation, emphasized that expanding the Wanderer Program to the Great Southern region had been a long-standing priority. “The program has already helped over 430 individuals obtain their driver’s license and delivered more than 18,000 hours of mentoring and supervised driving across other regions of Western Australia,” Andrew said. “We are excited about the joint venture with SAC and the positive impact of supporting even more people in achieving their licenses. This collaboration furthers the Foundation’s mission to remove barriers to education, employment and social participation.”