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For Hana Omar getting behind the wheel is an empowering challenge, she's proud to be taking up head on.
The refugee from Ethiopia juggles work at the Royal Children's Hospital and being the mother of a 14-year-old son.
She says a chance to be in the driver's seat with the help of in-language lessons is a life-changing opportunity to one day attain her licence.
"Our country is no peace and now in Australia I have right to learn, to work and also everyone is equal. Now I have the confidence to take driving lessons."
She's among a growing number of women from migrant and refugees backgrounds taking part in a six-week driving course at a community centre in Melbourne's inner-city.
Natassia Ludowyke, the community development manager of Carringbush Adult Education, says it's about breaking down socio-economic and cultural barriers they may face.
"It's just a wonderful safe space where the women can come together and learn and talk to each other, and sort of build, their confidence together to become drivers. The ability to feel confident and safe on the road to hold a licence um get a job, buy a car is really important is really important for our economy and them being active participants in it."
The course was recently awarded a grant under a Victorian government program aimed at supporting women in the state.
Victoria's Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins says it's seen as a means of investing in the potential of its participants, many of whom have compelling personal stories.
"This sort of program offers opportunities for economy, but also breaking down the barriers of isolation and the impacts of these women being able to get their licence is just huge on their local community and their families, because it gives them that independence and connection that they need to thrive. This is a major difference because it's doing it through A - a cultural lens and in language when it's needed but also giving them the resources of having those lessons."
Learning to drive may be the most practical skill taught in the program.
But participants are also educated with greater awareness about navigating the unique challenges that come with life on the road with help from interpreters.
Ms Ludowyke says this includes other essential knowledge like how to deal with infringement notices and the complexity of loans and insurance for first-time car buyers.
"When it comes to being a safe independent driver, the program really covers all of the bases that you need to become that so understanding Victoria Police, understanding their role, understanding how to buy a car, understanding the language you would need to be a safe driver on the road."
Lessons helping put them on the road to greater independence and confidence.
