30 July 2026

Whitehaven and Viva Energy support Clontarf Driver Program

Young Indigenous men will have greater access to driver education and licensing support thanks to a joint $20,000 contribution from Whitehaven and Viva Energy Australia to the Clontarf Driver Program.

The funding will support a cohort of Year 10, 11 and 12 students as they work towards obtaining their driver’s licence, from preparing for their learner licence through to gaining their red provisional licence.

For many young people in regional communities, having a driver’s licence is an important step towards accessing education, training and employment opportunities.

Whitehaven Advisor, NSW Indigenous Engagement Kelvin Allen said the program would deliver practical benefits for participants and help them achieve an important milestone.

“A driver’s licence can open the door to employment, training and greater independence, making it an important milestone for many young people,” Kelvin said.

“We’re proud to support the Clontarf Driver Program alongside Viva Energy and help create practical opportunities for young Indigenous people.”

Whitehaven and Viva Energy have each contributed $10,000 to the program, which provides tailored support based on where participants are in their licensing journey.

Students enter the program at different stages, with support ranging from preparation for the Driver Knowledge Test through to supervised driving experience needed to obtain a provisional licence.

Kelvin said the benefits extend beyond getting behind the wheel.

“Programs like this deliver tangible outcomes and equip participants with the skills and confidence to pursue their future goals,” he said.

“The Clontarf Driver Program is about more than getting a licence. It’s about building confidence, independence and life skills that can support young people long after they leave school.”

Viva Energy said the program would help create opportunities for local students and their communities.

“Supporting Indigenous young people to gain their driver’s licence removes a significant barrier to employment and further education opportunities,” Rob Bauer, Key Account Manager, said.

“Viva Energy is proud to partner with Whitehaven and Clontarf to help create lasting pathways for local students to achieve their goals.”

The Clontarf Driver Program is designed to support participants throughout the licensing process, helping them build practical skills and work towards goals that can support their future education, training and employment opportunities.

Through partnerships like this, Whitehaven continues to support initiatives that create positive outcomes for Indigenous youth in the communities where it operates.

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