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 to reduce car-dependency, and 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,” he said.
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 said.
National Walk Safely to School Day is May 22nd, 2026
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,” he said.
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,” he said.
Fast Facts about National Walk Safely to School Day
WHAT: National Walk Safely to School Day
WHEN: Friday 22 May 2026
WHERE: In all primary schools across Australia
WHY: This national initiative aims to encourage children to lead a healthier, more active lifestyle by simply including a walk at the beginning, at lunchtime and at the end of each day. The event also promotes reduced car dependency, greater use of public transport, cleaner air, improved diets and road safety to primary school children across Australia.
HOW: Encourage children to build regular walking in their daily routine by walking to, during, and from school
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