The Len Reynolds Trust is urging the Government to rethink aspects of its proposed changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS), warning that the current approach could compromise safety and deepen existing inequities—particularly for young people and rural learners.
CEO Melissa Gibson says the Trust supports efforts to make licensing more accessible and affordable. However, removing the full licence practical test and relying solely on a clean driving record could lower the standard for independent driving.
“Driving safely requires demonstrated knowledge, experience, and judgment,” says Gibson. “A clean record may reflect caution, but it doesn’t necessarily reflect competence—especially when access to practice and support varies widely.”
The Trust acknowledges positive aspects of the proposal, such as digital licensing services and the zero-alcohol limit for learner and restricted drivers. But the absence of meaningful investment in education and training is a major concern. The Trust is advocating for tools like hazard perception testing, minimum supervised driving hours, and community-based education programmes to be built into the system.
Another red flag is the plan to lower the demerit point threshold for novice drivers. Without better access to training and mentoring, this change could disproportionately punish those with the least support—rather than help them become safer drivers.
“Any reform must level the playing field—not reinforce existing barriers,” Gibson says. “A strong, equitable system must do more than streamline admin. It must ensure every driver has a fair and supported path to becoming safe and confident on the road.”
The Len Reynolds Trust Recommends:
Retaining the full licence practical test
Introducing structured education requirements and minimum supervised hours
Investing in driver training programmes, especially in rural and high-needs areas
Making digital licensing tools accessible for everyone
Pairing accountability with real support—not just penalties
The Trust is urging the Government to refocus this reform from compliance to capability, and from cost-cutting to care, so that every learner has a fair and supported path to safe driving.