Drive Smart Driver Academy – Family Newsletter
Hello Drive Smart families,
We hope you’re all enjoying the year so far. Here’s a quick update on what’s been happening across the academy, what we’re focusing on this month, and some important information for both learners and older drivers.
What We’ve Been Up To
It has been a busy and exciting period at Drive Smart Driver Academy. Our instructors have been working closely with learners across all abilities, with a particular focus on building confidence, mastering safe decision‑making, and preparing students for their upcoming driving tests.
We’ve continued strengthening our work in the neurodiverse community, supporting autistic learners and students with ADHD, anxiety, and other learning needs through structured, patient, and highly tailored lesson plans. I would also like to take this opportunity to announce a great partnership that we have with Changing Gears. Changing Gears is an organisation that helps people that are neurodiverse get their Learners. Please take the time to have a look on our website for more information on them.
Road Rule of the Month: Give Way to the Right
This month, we’re revisiting one of the most important — yet often misunderstood — road rules:
When two vehicles approach an uncontrolled intersection (no stop sign, no give‑way sign, no lights), you must give way to the vehicle on your right.
How It Works
• If two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the left must give way.
• The driver on the right has priority.
• This applies only where there are no signs, no signals, and no line markings indicating otherwise.
• If in doubt — slow down and prepare to stop.
Why We’re Taking More Learners to Dromana for Testing
Many families have noticed that we are offering more test‑day support in Dromana. This is because:
• The area is quieter with fewer complex traffic patterns
• Learners often feel calmer and less overwhelmed
• The test routes are more predictable
• Many students find they have a better chance of passing due to the reduced pressure and clearer road environment
If your learner struggles with busy city environments, Dromana continues to be one of our recommended testing locations. Speak to Steven about this option.
Update: Older Drivers & Re‑Testing Requirements
We’re seeing an increase in older drivers being asked to complete re‑testing by VicRoads/ Transport Victoria
This may be triggered by:
• medical conditions
• eyesight changes
• cognitive or physical assessments
• doctor‑recommended reviews or people may have had an accident
If you have an older family member who has been advised to complete a driving review/ assessment or test, we are fully equipped to support them with refresher lessons, confidence‑building sessions, and medical‑friendly driving assessments. We have the allied health professionals in place to assist with no waiting lists.
Drive Smart Is Now Running School Talks!
We’re excited to share that Drive Smart Driver Academy is now offering engaging school talks designed to help students feel confident, safe, and prepared before they begin their driving journey.
Our sessions cover learner expectations, road awareness, mindset preparation, and what students can do now to become safer future drivers.
If your child’s school—or any school you’re connected with—would benefit from this program, we’d love to make it happen. BEST OF ALL IT IS FREE
All students need to do is speak with their teachers, and we can work with the school to set up a session.
It’s a great way to empower young drivers and build safer roads for everyone.
Parent Driving Tip of the Month
Coach the Calm — Not the Car
One of the most powerful things a parent can do during driving practice is help their learner stay calm and focused. Your learner is not just learning to steer, brake, and signal — they’re learning how to manage their emotions, decision‑making, and attention under pressure.
Here’s a simple method that works wonders:
1. Start each session with a one‑minute check‑in
Ask your learner how they’re feeling before you even start the engine.
If they say “nervous,” “unsure,” or “tired,” keep the practice shorter and simple.
2. Narrate calmly — don’t instruct urgently
Swap “Stop! Stop! Stop!” for
“Gently brake… good… now come to a stop.”
When parents stay calm, learners stay calm.
3. Correct one thing at a time
Teens get overwhelmed easily.
Focus on one skill per drive — like smooth braking or scanning — not everything at once.
4. Celebrate the small wins
Not stalling. Checking a mirror. Slowing early.
These are real achievements and build genuine driving confidence.
Friends With Benefits — Share the Drive, Share the Savings!
At Drive Smart Driver Academy, we believe learning to drive should feel empowering, supportive, and stress‑free. Over the years, we’ve grown not just through great lessons—but through amazing people like you who recommend us to your friends and family.
So we’re excited to introduce our new referral perk:
Know someone who needs a driving instructor? Send them our way!
Whether it’s a teenager starting their driving journey, an adult returning to the road, or someone needing specialist support—your referral means a lot to us. And to say thank you, we’ve added a little bonus.
Your Reward: FRIENDS10%
When you make your next booking, simply enter the code
FRIENDS10%
and enjoy 10% off your upcoming lesson or package—our way of showing appreciation for spreading the word.
Why learners choose Drive Smart:
- Professional, supportive instructors trained to work with diverse learners.
- Flexible lesson lengths and packages to suit every stage of driving development.
- A trusted reputation across Melbourne for quality, patience, and results.
So go ahead—tell a friend, help someone feel confident behind the wheel, and enjoy a little saving next time you drive with us.
Thank You for Being Part of the Drive Smart Family
Your continued trust means everything to us. Whether you’re a first‑time learner, a neurodiverse student, a parent navigating test bookings, or an older driver needing guidance — we’re here to support you every kilometre of the way. We have a new website coming there will be some exciting changes with more packages & more options for families.
There will also be accouple of new instructors coming on board in the coming months. Both instructors are highly qualified & fit the Drive Smart Driver Academy mould. Both will be working across most areas that we cover. Rest assured I will be working closely with both instructors & still working closely with our Drive Smart Families.
We are proud sponsors of the following organisations & community sport
AND REMEMBER YOUR LEARNER IS ALWAYS WATCHING HOW YOU ARE DRIVING
