Mr. Brendan Walsh:

I thank the Senator for the question. It is interesting. That practice of going to the testing route has existed since I got my own licence. We are aware that, in some instances, it causes concerns for residents. On the next level of driving testing, my team and I are always looking at new and innovative ways in which tests can be delivered, but we are hampered by what technology is available. I can share with the Senator that, as part of the road safety strategy, we are looking at an additional tool called hazard perception testing. It would allow an individual, during the training process to become a driver, to have some level of a simulation through a screen. The reality is that I am not aware of an actual driving test being delivered through a simulator anywhere in the world. I would be very happy if the Senator was aware of a country or jurisdiction that did have it and would be interested in looking into it. It would help local residents and may have additional elements which are beneficial as part of the learning and development process as a driver. It is a good question but we are not aware of it happening in any jurisdiction at the moment.