Lowes fuels the future for First Nations youth

Huge shout out to Australia’s regional fuel champion Lowes Petroleum Service for keeping our fleet of vehicles on the road in 2024!

The partnership has come at a pivotal point for the On-Country Pathways’ Driver-Mentor Program.

We have 40 young First Nations learner drivers on our books looking to reach their 120 supervised driving hours and gain their independence – and many more enquiries.

With Lowes Petroleum Service covering our fuel costs, we can afford to help more young people change their lives.

Sharon White, Lowes Petroleum Service Head of Sales & Marketing, said: “We’re deeply committed to the prosperity of rural Australia. Our support for initiatives like the On-Country Pathways’ Driver-Mentor Program in Albury, Wodonga, and surrounds, reflects this dedication.”

“We understand that a driver’s license is more than a document—it’s a gateway to opportunities. For First Nations youth aged 16 to 24 years, overcoming barriers to obtaining a license is crucial. By providing access and mentorship, we empower them to navigate toward a brighter future, driving positive change in their communities.”

Driver-mentor, Gunditjmara woman Chloe Sargeant, said: “Not having a driving licence is one of the biggest barriers to employment for First Nations youth in regional and rural areas. Obtaining those 120 hours with myself and our other driver-mentors, who are all local First Nations community members, is a game changer.”

Since the program was launched last year, we have assisted 13 young people to gain their Ps, most of whom now have jobs or are in tertiary education.

Read more about the program here.