Star Bomber Matthew Lloyd has thrown his support behind a new interavtive CD ROM produced by the TAC and designed to assist novice drivers in the development of their skills behind the wheel.

Earlier this week, Lloyd tried the new "Drive Smart" CD ROM and gave it the thumbs up saying it would significantly reduce the risks young drivers faced when first venturing onto the roads.

Drive Smart systematically trains users the in areas of hazard detection, scanning the environment and managing the workload of driving in busy traffic.

The Drive Smart program has been developed to supplement driving experience but is no substitute for hands-on experience behind the wheel.

"It's a great starting point for young drivers and something I certainly wish I'd had access to before I went for my licence," Lloyd said.

"There are so many situations that don't even cross your mind when you first start driving - the Drive Smart program alerts you to those.

"Obviously the best way to learn is behind the wheel but this program will have an impact and it is a fun way to learn."

During the past five years more than 150 young drivers aged between 18 and 21 have been killed on our roads and a futher 2500 have been seriously injured.

Drive Smart is the result of a five-year research project conducted by the TAC in conjunction with the Monash University Accident Research Centre.

The video sequences offered in the package give users a driver's seat view, complete with rear-vision and side-mirror views.

"It is a great way to practice driving and you'll pick up things that might one day save your life," Lloyd said.

"To play good football I practice as much as possible - I treated driving the same way and I would encourage all young teenagers to do the same."