Driving Change for Aotearoa
Driver licensing isn't just about getting from A to B. It's about access to education, employment, independence, and opportunity.
AllTrain is proud to be a member of the Driving Change Network (DCN), a nationwide collective working to create a fairer and more accessible driver licensing system across Aotearoa New Zealand. Recently, our Director, Maria Bayley, travelled to Auckland to attend the Driving Change Network Conference, where providers, instructors, iwi representatives, community organisations, and advocates from around the country came together to discuss the future of driver licensing in New Zealand.
The conference also marked the launch of the Driving Change Network's 2026 Election Manifesto, a policy platform built on years of frontline experience from organisations working directly with learners and communities.
Why Driver Licensing Matters
For many New Zealanders, a driver's licence is far more than a piece of plastic. It can be the key to employment opportunities, education, healthcare, community participation, and supporting whānau. Unfortunately, barriers still exist within the current licensing system, particularly for learners living in rural communities, people facing financial hardship, and those who require additional support throughout the licensing journey. The Driving Change Network believes driver licensing access should be recognised as essential social and economic infrastructure, helping people connect with opportunities while contributing to safer roads and stronger communities.
The Five Priorities for Change
The 2026 Election Manifesto outlines five key priorities:
Champion driver licensing access as a public good.
Develop a National Driver Licensing Access Strategy.
Ensure equitable implementation of Graduated Driver Licensing System (GDLS) reform.
Establish a National Driver Equity Fund.
Invest in equitable access, education, and support pathways.
These priorities aim to create a more connected, accessible, and future-focused licensing system that works for all New Zealanders. The full manifesto explores why driver licensing should be recognised as essential social and economic infrastructure and outlines practical recommendations for creating a fairer, more accessible licensing system for all New Zealanders.
AllTrain Helping Drive Change
As part of AllTrain's involvement with the Driving Change Network, Maria Bayley recently travelled to Auckland to attend the Driving Change Network Conference. The event brought together more than 160 people from across Aotearoa New Zealand, all working towards a more equitable and accessible driver licensing system. It was an opportunity for driver trainers, community providers, advocates, industry leaders, and government agencies to share ideas, discuss challenges, and explore solutions that help more New Zealanders access safe and lawful driving.
Conference attendees heard from representatives from NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), the Ministry of Transport (MoT), the Automobile Association (AA), and VTNZ, who shared updates on current initiatives and the collaborative work underway to improve the licensing system and make it more accessible for learners. Sessions also explored innovative approaches to driver training, including the use of driving simulators, practical community resources available through the Driving Change Toolbox, and the remarkable journey of the Driving Change Network itself, led by National Director Wendy Robertson.
For Maria, one of the standout presentations came from local legend Liz McLellan of Drive 101, who specialises in supporting learners with additional needs.
"Liz delivered a fantastic session on working with learners who require specialised support. It was inspiring to see the impact that knowledgeable and passionate educators can have in helping people overcome barriers to gaining their licence."
Maria says one of the most rewarding parts of the conference was connecting with so many like-minded people who genuinely care about improving outcomes for learners and communities.
"We're incredibly fortunate to be part of a network of committed professionals who are willing to share knowledge, collaborate, and advocate for positive change. The conference was a great reminder of how much progress has already been made, and how much opportunity there is still ahead."
As a member of the Driving Change Network Steering Group and lead of the Education to Employment Work Group, Maria continues to advocate for stronger connections between driver licensing, workforce development, and employment opportunities throughout New Zealand.
Working Together
At AllTrain, we see firsthand the difference a driver's licence can make in someone's life. Whether it's helping a student gain independence, supporting someone into employment, or providing pathways into industry, access to driver training creates opportunities that extend far beyond the road. We're proud to stand alongside the Driving Change Network and support initiatives that make licensing more accessible, equitable, and effective for communities throughout New Zealand.
