Senior Driver Assessments
SENIOR
DRIVER
ASSESSMENTS
Senior Driver AssessmentsIn response to a tragic collision in Melbourne’s east involving a 91‑year‑old driver, the Victorian Government has confirmed it will conduct a comprehensive review of elderly driver testing protocols. Two pedestrians lost their lives in the accident, and the incident has intensified public calls for reform.
Department Review UnderwayThe Roads Minister has urgently asked the transport department to investigate current licensing practices and evaluate whether mandatory testing—especially for older drivers—should be introduced. As the number of drivers over 85 on the road rises sharply, the timing of the review follows mounting concern about road safety¹.
Unlike Victoria, other Australian jurisdictions already enforce age-related licensing measures. In New South Wales, drivers aged 85 and over must complete a practical driving test every two years. In Western Australia, annual medical assessments are compulsory for drivers in their eighties. Queensland drivers must carry a current medical certificate certifying fitness to drive².
The Roads Minister emphasised that no possible solution is off the table. “Mandatory testing absolutely has a place—but it shouldn’t focus solely on older drivers,” she said, adding that any sweeping change must include community consultation².
Currently, the onus is on individual drivers to inform VicRoads of any medical condition that might impair driving. Victoria lacks a formal age-based testing regime or medical assessments for elderly drivers. However, public and medical referrals to VicRoads are accepted².
Recent statistics underscore the urgency: the number of motor vehicle licence holders aged over 85 has risen by approximately 75% over the past decade in Victoria alone. As the population ages, policymakers and road safety advocates are facing increasing pressure to act¹.
As the review commences, officials emphasise the importance of engaging with stakeholders—including older drivers, their families and medical professionals—to shape balanced, evidence‑based reforms. Public dialogue will be sought before implementation of any new regulations²³.
At Senior Driver Assessments, we support safe driving independence. Our goal is to help senior drivers remain on the road as long and as safely as possible through standardised fitness-to-drive assessments.
As this important review progresses, SDA will monitor developments closely and ensure our clients are informed about the implications for driving safety and licensing practice.