Primary school-aged children across Australia will step towards a healthier future next month on National Walk Safely to School Day, Friday 22 May 2026. Now in its 27th year, the initiative led by the Pedestrian Council of Australia highlights the health, safety, transport and environmental benefits of walking or using active travel to get to and from school – not just on Walk Safely to School Day, but every day. The day encourages positive environmental action, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency, and encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools. Research also shows children who are active before school are more focused, more productive and perform better in the classroom. Pedestrian Council CEO Harold Scruby said walking builds lifelong habits while improving safety and wellbeing.
“Walking every day builds confidence, improves concentration and establishes healthy habits for life while making our roads safer and our air cleaner for everyone,” Mr Scruby commented.
The day also encourages reduced car use, less congestion around schools and greater use of public and active transport.
“Until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road,” Mr Scruby commented.
Schools and P&Cs are encouraged to Host a Healthy Breakfast on the day, with schools able to win one of 28 x $250 food vouchers thanks to Woolworths by registering for publicity to share their local stories HERE.
“The extremely concerning childhood obesity epidemic continues to affect 1 in 4 children across Australia,” Mr Scruby commented.
Being active every day, including walking to school, can help make a difference for many Australians. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or carer, everyone has a role to play in helping children and young people to lead active, healthy lives.
“Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Walking is the simplest way to achieve this – before school, during the day and afterwards,” Mr Scruby commented.
*ABS National Health Survey 2017-18