Services

Our OT Driving Programs assist individuals in learning how to navigate life on the road in a safe and inclusive way. 

Find out more about each of our programs below!

Please note that all driving services are available in Colac, Geelong and surrounding regions. Travel costs may be applicable and will be discussed during the intake process.

Our Programs

Potential To Drive Assessment

The Potential to Drive (PTD) assessment helps to ascertain whether you have the potential to drive a car, and what extra provisions or supports may be required to help you achieve your goal of becoming an independent driver. This can be commenced before or after obtaining your learner permit test and assesses capability in on road skill development based on other occupation engagement. 
This assessment includes:

• Simulated driving experiences with report outlining the findings and recommendations for the NDIA.
• Standardised assessment tools as well as in depth discussion with others on the care team to understand history of skill development progression in other life skills.
• Preparation tools to support you in your journey to obtaining your learners and some take home tasks.

A learner permit is not required to undertake this assessment.
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Recommended hours: 10 hours plus travel if required (please note this is an approximate and may differ depending on individual factors) 

Learners Program

Step 2 Your Learners is a group designed to develop participants skills and required knowledge to undertake the online VicRoads Learners Test.

Participants will complete the following assessments during the 8 week program: 

• Support with progression through the Online VicRoads Education platform for obtaining a Learners Permit (noting that participants are still required to provide all answers to tests/quiz without guidance).
• Real life practical examples of knowledge presented in the VicRoads education platform.
• Resources to continue education in the vehicle as a passenger between each session.

Recommended hours: This program is now being delivered by the OT Driving Assessor and is considered a therapy/capacity building program. Please discuss costs with OT Driving Administration (please note this cost is a ratio amongst participants enrolled in the program). 

OT Driving Assessment 

Occupational Therapy Driving Assessors work towards identifying cognitive, sensory, visual and environmental factors that may impact an individuals capacity to learn or to continue to drive in a safe and competent way.

From this, the Occupational Therapists can support participants in adapting or modifying the environment or task, as well as working with individuals to help them meet their driving goals.

The purpose of this assessment can be for any of the following:

• Assessing the need for recommended 'Specialised Driver Training' under the NDIS.
• Assessing the need for vehicle modification/adaption to driving techniques.
• As requested by VicRoads Medical Review/other treating professional.
• Probationary licence testing (if deemed necessary by VicRoads and treating professional).

This assessment includes:

• An off road assessment in which completes a set of standardised assessments to assess a range of different skills required for driving.
• Information gathering to establish medical history and diagnosis and potential impact on driving.
• On road assessment in a dual control vehicle with specialised driver trainer.
• Reporting to VicRoads on recommendations and findings. Depending on reason for referral, this may also involve a report for NDIS with recommendation and findings.

Recommended hours: 6-8 hours ($1163.94 - $1551.92) plus travel if required (please note this includes cost of the specialised driver trainer who is required for the purpose of on road assessment) 

P's Preparation Program 

The P's Preparation Program is a 6-week course that caters to individuals who have obtained or are aspiring to obtain a Probationary License but still have unanswered questions about road events, hazards or incidents.

Some topics we aim to cover:

• Navigating through a breathalyser test for the first time.
• What to do in the event of an accident.
• Handling a breakdown situation with your vehicle.
• Verify your car registration or find out the due date.

• Understanding various insurance types and how to access insurance.​

Please note, we aim to tailor this program based on the questions the participants come with to the program to ensure they feel well equipped with the knowledge to be a safe independent driver.

A learner permit or probationary licence is required to undertake this course and it is suggested that participants have had minimum 40 hours of on road experience (e.g. lessons/supervised time driving).

Recommended hours: This program is now being delivered by the OT Driving Assessor and is considered a therapy/capacity building program. Please discuss costs with OT Driving Administration (please note this cost is a ratio amongst participants enrolled in the program). 

Specialised Driver Training

A lesson with a specialised driver trainer typically involves tailored instruction to address the unique needs and challenges of the learner/or individual returning to drive. The structure of the lesson may vary depending on the individual's abilities, the type of vehicle modifications needed, and the specific goals of the learner. These are always guided by the OT Driving Assessor.

Typical lessons can address:

•  Identify any specific challenges or requirements the learner may have.
• If the learner is using a modified vehicle, the trainer will introduce and explain the adaptive equipment and modifications.
• Ensure the learner is comfortable and familiar with the vehicle controls.
• Begin with fundamental driving skills, such as steering control, acceleration, braking, and turning.
• Focus on building confidence and coordination in operating the vehicle.
• Provide instruction on how to use any adaptive equipment, such as hand controls, wheelchair lifts, or other modifications.
• Practice using adaptive features to ensure the learner can operate the vehicle safely.
• Cover essential traffic rules and safety regulations.
• Develop an understanding of traffic signs, signals, and proper road etiquette. 
• Simulate various driving scenarios to help the learner develop problem-solving skills and make informed decisions while driving.
• Structured lessons are usually designed to gradually increase in complexity as the learner gains confidence and skills.

Throughout the entire process, the specialised driver trainer's role is to be patient, supportive, and adaptable to the individual's unique needs. Lessons are often tailored to address specific challenges and promote the learner's independence and safety on the road including oversight from the assessing OT Driving Assessor.

Step 2 Allied Health pricing is in line with the NDIS price guide.
​Please see link below for details 

PRICING

Referral