Advocates slam 'ageist' push for mandatory testing for older drivers

A fresh push to make older drivers undergo mandatory health checks has been labelled ageist by advocates.

GPs have reignited the debate to introduce annual assessments for drivers aged 75 and over to bring the state in line with standards in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.

"We do feel that having an annual assessment done for elderly drivers is a good thing," Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Victoria co-deputy chair Dr Bindiya Sethi said.

READ MORE: Released immigration detainee accused of brutal Perth home invasion

But senior advocates claim the push is ageist.

"We find it ageist and arbitrary ... It's targeting people that don't need to be targeted," Seniors Rights Victoria policy and advocacy manager Ben Rogers said.

MP Steve Dimopolous added there was no compelling evidence that an aged-based assessment model was any better than what's currently in place.

VicRoads said there was a great deal of misinformation about older drivers and they're "usually more cautious, more experienced and more responsible" than younger drivers.

"They are more likely to obey the law and are less likely to drink drive or speed," VicRoads said.

However, others claim mandatory assessments are a good move.

"I think it's fair enough. Over a certain age, maybe 70 or so," local man Pat said.

"I think the younger drivers are worse than the older drivers," another Victorian said.