The State Government has confirmed it will build a new dedicated driver testing hub in St Marys.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello said the $3.47 million investment would not only create a state-of-the-art driver testing facility in St Marys but would also create jobs.
“Driver testing has been affected by COVID-19 restrictions and the Omicron variant but we are doing everything we can to get back to business as usual,” Mr Dominello said.
“Alongside the recruitment of 147 staff, including extra driver testers, and extending driver testing hours at selected locations across the state, this new purpose-built hub will help ensure we’re back on track.
“The new hub will offer about 600 computer-based knowledge tests and more than 480 driving tests each week for customers, including those wanting to graduate to their P-Plates.
“Service NSW will also roll out a new Mobile Service Centre, which will operate in temporary locations across metropolitan Sydney as an extra addition to assist with the backlog of driving and driver knowledge testing.
“We appreciate customers’ patience and understanding and apologise for any delays as the team works to clear the backlog created by the pandemic.”
Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said the NSW Government had listened to the community through this difficult time.
“Customers who believe they have a case for genuine hardship can discuss their circumstances with the teams at their local Service NSW Centre,” Mrs Ward said.
“The safety of staff and customers remains our top priority. Driver testers are required to be fully vaccinated and customers either need to be fully vaccinated or have received a negative Rapid Antigen Test on the day of the test.
“Face masks, disposable seat covers, hand sanitisers and other personal protective equipment will remain in place.”
The new St Marys driver testing hub is due to open mid-year at 75-105 Mamre Road and operate from 8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday.
