But for many the 120 hours experience needed before you even do your test is a huge barrier … enter 120 Countdown, a program run by Uniting to help learner drivers achieve their hours and their P-plates.

Nambucca Valley 120 Countdown coordinator Harlan Cooper said that given the high unemployment rates in the area, the need for the program was especially acute here.

"We know that 40 per cent of unemployed people don't have their licence and that public transport is often not an option. Being able to drive makes the world of difference to your opportunities," Harlan said.

"We are now looking for experienced drivers from all walks of life who are willing to volunteer to help people get their hours up and offer that 'safe space' to learn."

He said volunteers all receive training before they can become mentors and they are then carefully matched with the learners.

"The program is free plus we pay for a couple of professional lessons for learners to get them started. 

"We have two volunteers already plus two more who are interested and the car is ready to go. All we need are more volunteers - we are aiming to be able to offer 20-25 hours a week to learner drivers."

For more information phone 1800 864 846 or email ask@uniting.org.

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