In August, we celebrated another year of the remarkable volunteer driver mentor program, PCYC Braking the Cycle, with a Parliament House event hosted by the Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment the Honourable Cameron Dick.
Since 2017, MAIC has been a proud major supporter of this program which is run by the Police Citizens and Youth Welfare Association (PCYC) and provides disadvantaged people across Queensland with the opportunity to obtain the 100 hours necessary to sit for their driver licence.
During 2022-23, the Braking the Cycle program at MAIC-funded branches delivered over 41,000 driving hours, engaged over 2,400 participants and delivered over 2,302 education hours. This culminated in 713 program participants going on to obtain their provisional driver licence, which is a wonderful achievement.
Research shows that unlicensed drivers are overrepresented in road crashes, particularly those resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. MAIC’s investment in the Braking the Cycle program represents a proactive approach to reducing unlicensed driving and associated road trauma, as well as reducing potential claims to the Queensland CTP scheme.
Now available in over 40 locations, this program continues to make a meaningful difference in breaking the cycle of disadvantage through education, community engagement, and empowerment. A highlight of the event was hearing first-hand from participants on the positive impacts of the program in terms of not only their driving but enhanced employment and education opportunities.
A heartfelt round of applause goes out to PCYC organisers and volunteers. We extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering service. It’s your commitment that’s driving change, shaping futures, and making roads safer for all.