Process and Outcomes Evaluation of the Drive for Life Program

In 2021–22, the Queensland Government funded The Salvation Army to deliver the Drive for Life program in Brisbane and Bundaberg through to June 2026. Drive for Life supports young people aged 16 to 25 who experience barriers to obtaining their driver’s licence. Drive for Life recognises that for many young people, particularly those from priority cohorts, navigating the driver licensing system can be challenging. Drive for Life assists participants with getting their learner licence by: 

• having lessons with a licenced driving instructor to get started 

• being assigned a volunteer driving supervisor to complete their logbook hours 

• being accompanied by the supervisor to their practical driving test. 

The Salvation Army engaged ARTD to undertake a process and outcomes evaluation of the Drive for Life program to assess its implementation and effectiveness, including alignment with Department of Transport and Main Roads’ funding requirements. The evaluation involved: 

• a process evaluation to examine how well Drive for Life is implemented and whether the program is meeting its intended objectives 

• an outcomes evaluation to understand the difference the program is making for young people, including licence attainment and road safety knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours. 

We used a mixed-methods approach, drawing on qualitative and quantitative data to answer 11 key evaluation questions. Our methods included: 

• reviewing Drive for Life program documentation 

• developing a program logic and evaluation framework 

• semi-structured interviews with stakeholders in Brisbane and Bundaberg, including the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Drive for Life staff, learner drivers, and volunteer mentors  

• analysing administrative data on program participation and outcomes  

• a survey with learner drivers to explore changes in attitudes before and after the program. 

The evaluation found that the Drive for Life program was delivered as intended and was closely aligned with funding guidelines. Drive for Life has made it easier for young people to meet Queensland’s graduated licensing system requirements and obtain their provisional licence. The program is also contributing to broader wellbeing and social inclusion outcomes for both participants and volunteer mentors. 

Our evaluation identified opportunities to further strengthen Drive for Life as the program grows. This included providing additional training, resources, and support to volunteer mentors, reviewing program management and governance arrangements to support operations as the program expands, and continuing to seek opportunities for collaboration with other services and government departments.