That means you’re expected to be a supervisor driver for 120 hours … to help you through the experience of teaching your child to drive, Cumberland Council is offering a free workshop for parents or carers who supervise learner drivers.
Supported by Roads and Maritime Services, the course covers how the NSW graduated licensing scheme works; how to complete the learner drivers log book; low risk driving tips; the use of licensed driving instructors; and practical tips for teaching and supervising a learner driver with up-to-date information on the requirements for learner drivers.
The council’s Road Safety Officer Milan Letunica, who is teaching his two daughters to drive and will support RMS facilitator David Riches during the workshop, says not everyone is born to be a teacher but this workshop will go a long way giving you confidence to then pass onto your child.
“It’s important to avoid all possible conflict, don’t yell, be very clear on all instructions and have a discussion at the end about strengths and weaknesses,” he said.
“A few professional lessons are also a good idea for them to get rid of any bad habits that you may have passed on to them without realising.”
Book for the workshop for light refreshment purposes on Thursday, March 4, 6.30-8.30pm, at the Granville Centre by calling Milan on 8757 9870 or email rso@cumberland.nsw.gov.au.
BEFORE undergoing the workshop, find a good place to learn; ask friends in your area who’ve had learner drivers where the quiet, local streets are, possibly an industrial estate on a weekend?
The next thing is to double check with your insurer, but most car insurance policies automatically cover a learner driver who is being taught by a parent, if that parent is a nominated driver on the insurance policy.
If you only have a compulsory green slip, you might want to consider upgrading to third party property or comprehensive insurance.
