Reframing Risk-Taking in Driving: A Strengths-Based Approach to Road Safety
Kerry Arabena
Managing Director
Road safety is a critical issue for all communities, yet Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth face unique systemic and intergenerational barriers that influence their approach to driving. Too often, risk-taking in driving is viewed as a deficit, rather than a natural developmental process that can be channelled into structured, positive pathways for skill development. The Victorian Department of Transport and Planning has recognised the need for a culturally responsive approach to road safety, focusing on improving access to driver training, removing systemic barriers to licensing, and ensuring that young drivers—particularly those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds—have the resources and opportunities to develop safe driving skills.
Understanding Risk-Taking in Driving
Risk-taking is an inherent part of adolescence. Young people test their limits, seek excitement, and navigate social pressures. However, the way risk-taking is perceived and responded to varies based on social and economic structures. For many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, the barriers to safe driving include financial constraints, limited access to formal driver education, and over-policing on the roads. These structural challenges must be addressed to create safer and more equitable road safety outcomes.
Addressing Barriers to Safe Driving
Many young people face significant challenges in obtaining a driver’s licence, including:
Financial costs – The expense of obtaining a licence, along with additional costs for lessons and supervised hours, is prohibitive for many.
Lack of identification – Many young people struggle to access the necessary documentation to apply for a licence.
Graduated licensing system barriers – The requirement for 120 supervised driving hours can be a significant obstacle for those without access to a licensed supervisor.
Over-policing and criminalisation – Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander drivers are disproportionately penalised for driving without a licence, creating long-term consequences that hinder their mobility and employment opportunities.
A Strengths-Based Approach to Driving Education
Rather than focusing on punitive measures, a strengths-based approach to driving education recognises risk-taking as a developmental asset that can be channelled into structured and positive learning experiences. Key strategies include:
Culturally tailored driver training programs – Community-led initiatives that incorporate cultural knowledge, mentorship, and practical driving education.
Increased access to affordable licensing pathways – Addressing economic barriers through subsidised learner permits, supervised driving programs, and vehicle maintenance support.
Career pathways in transport and logistics – Expanding opportunities for young people with a passion for driving by creating professional pathways into industries such as logistics, road safety education, and even motorsports.
Embedding cultural governance in road safety programs – Ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities lead the design and delivery of driving education initiatives.
Creating Opportunities, Not Barriers
Karabena Consulting has worked with the Department of Transport and Planning’s work on improving road safety outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria. Our research highlights the importance of moving beyond punitive approaches and toward proactive solutions. Key recommendations include:
Expanding driver education beyond schools – Tailoring programs for young people outside formal education settings and offering off-road training in rural and regional areas.
Supporting Aboriginal businesses in driver training – Investing in Indigenous-owned businesses to deliver culturally competent driver education services.
Subsidising access to roadworthy vehicles – Providing government-backed programs to equip young drivers with safe, reliable vehicles.
Integrating road safety with community well-being initiatives – Addressing the broader social determinants of road safety, including mental health, family obligations, and economic participation.
A Call to Action: Shifting the Narrative on Road Safety
The way we frame risk-taking in driving matters. Rather than criminalising young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander drivers for behaviour that is developmental, we need to create structured opportunities that allow them to learn, develop skills, and build safe driving habits. Investing in culturally responsive road safety initiatives ensures that all young people—regardless of background—have the chance to drive safely, legally, and with confidence.
By recognising the systemic barriers that impact road safety and committing to a strengths-based approach, we can create pathways that not only improve individual driving outcomes but also contribute to safer roads for all Victorians. Read more about our road safety project.