A recent change in law has personally affected me, and many other P Platers throughout Australia. This law was revised in response to a tragic incident where a 15-year-old died in a car accident. Five passengers were on board in a P Plater's vehicle that crashed into a tree. To prevent such incidents, stricter regulations have been enforced, limiting P Platers to carry only one passenger in their vehicle.

These laws, while made with good intentions, contribute to an increased resentment among young drivers towards the Australian government for stifling our freedoms and mobility. As P Platers, the thrill and independence we obtain from obtaining our license is being limited. A more pragmatic solution would be to base passenger restrictions according to age, specifically allowing passengers aged 16 and above.

Research indicates that with every increase in passenger age, the risk of a fatal accident decreases as it eliminates risky behaviors generally associated with younger, more immature passengers. (Source: Tefft, Brian C; Williams, Allan F; Grabowski, Jurek G. "Driver Age and Crash Involvement Rates Per Mile Driven, United States, 2017". Journal of Safety Research, Volume 73, October 2020).

Therefore, it is essential that the regulation is amended to allow two passengers instead of one, with age restrictions of 16 and above. Adapting such changes is not just about restoring the enjoyment of driving, but it will also ensure a safer and more responsible driving environment for all Australian P Platers. Please sign this petition to lend your support in changing the current law for P Platers.