Community celebrates recognition of Koori Knockout legacy with a Blue Plaque

The Koori Rugby League Knockout is being memorialised with a blue plaque in Sydney’s inner west, to celebrate the grassroots sporting competition.

The plaque will today be unveiled at the first Koori Knockout venue, Camdenville Park, St Peters, to recognise what is considered one of the biggest annual gatherings of Aboriginal people in Australia. More than 40,000 spectators attend each year.

The Koori Knockout was formed by six young Indigenous men at Redfern’s Clifton Hotel, who wanted an opportunity to showcase Aboriginal sporting talent that had been overlooked by scouts. The founders – Victor Wright, Bob Smith, Bob Morgan, Bill Kennedy, Danny Rose and the late George Jackson – envisioned an event that was more than just a platform for football, but also a gathering of family, community and cultural pride.

The first Koori Knockout at Camdenville Park in 1971 brought together seven teams from across NSW: Koorie United, Redfern All Blacks, Kempsey, La Perouse, Walgett, Cowra and a combined Mt Druitt-South Coast side. It was a resounding success, setting the foundation for what has now become one of Australia’s most significant indigenous events.

The blue plaque recognising the Knockout’s importance to the state’s heritage has been incorporated into the renovations of Camdenville Park. Aboriginal community members who were there for the tournament’s conception, have flown into Sydney from around Australia to attend the unveiling of the blue plaque, to remember why the competition was started and celebrate what it has become.

The Koori Knockout continues to serve as a vibrant celebration of Aboriginal heritage, drawing together communities from across the state to compete, connect and celebrate their shared culture.

The popular Blue Plaque NSW program places round, blue plaques at sites across NSW to recognise and share the stories of individuals or moments in history. The installation of each new plaque brings added interest to the heritage of an area, encouraging locals to explore their backyards, and inviting those from further afield to learn more about the unique history of these communities.

For information about the Blue Plaques NSW program visit www.blueplaques.nsw.gov.au.

Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe:

“This is more than a tribute to a game of footy – it’s a celebration of the deep cultural connections, identity and resilience of Aboriginal communities across NSW. The Koori Knockout is a living celebration and it’s great to see it formally recognised today.

“The Koori Knockout is a proud legacy of Aboriginal leadership, determination and community spirit. It began as a grassroots initiative and has grown into one of the most significant cultural gatherings in the country. This plaque rightly honours that history.”

Member for Heffron, Minister Ron Hoenig:

“I’m proud that Camdenville Park in my electorate now bears a permanent reminder of the first Koori Knockout – an event that continues to bring people together in a powerful show of unity and culture.

“This plaque is a reminder of how local places carry national stories. The Koori Knockout began here, but its legacy stretches far and wide. The addition of this plaque in the wonderfully upgraded Camdenville Park cements this important legacy for generations to come.”

Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen:

“I am so proud that we have, right here in the Inner West, a recognition by the NSW Government of the Koori Knockout and its enduring cultural and community legacy.

“For over 50 years, the Koori Knockout has been more than just a rugby league competition. It is a demonstration of the power of cultural connections and community determination, and this oval in the heart of our Inner West community has put into motion decades of increased access for Aboriginal players from all over our state, many of whom have gone on to represent NSW, QLD or Australia, and bring the game of rugby league to new heights.”

Bold new Trade and Investment Strategy launched ahead of trade mission to the Republic of Korea and Japan

The NSW Government has today released the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy 2035 – a 10-year plan with clear targets to grow and diversify the state’s exports and attract investment to develop and strengthen new and existing industries, as well as driving long-term economic prosperity.

As the impacts of tariffs flow through global markets, NSW is strengthening its commitment to an open economy that champions free and fair trade, with diversification of both what NSW’s exports and which countries we export to at the centre of our approach.

The release of the Strategy comes ahead of Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong undertaking a seven-day trade mission to the Republic of Korea and Japan – markets that present clear opportunities to increase trade and investment and advance the government’s ambitions in housing, the transition to net zero and local manufacturing.

The NSW Trade and Investment Strategy provides a clear path towards a more productive and resilient economy focused on the following outcomes by 2035:

Increase the value of NSW exports to $245 billion; a $100 billion increase from 2023-24

  • NSW’s goods and services exports total $142.5 billion, which has grown by more than $70 billion over the last decade.
  • NSW has set an ambitious export target focused on continued growth, taking advantage of opportunities arising from our proximity to high growth markets such as Southeast Asia, and opportunities created by the global energy transition.

Increase the diversity of NSW’s export markets

  • NSW’s largest merchandise export markets in 2023-24 were Japan, mainland China, and Taiwan, comprising nearly 45% of goods export value.
  • The Strategy seeks to diversify our export destinations through solidifying links with growing economies, at the same time as embracing new opportunities in current major markets

Increase the diversity of NSW’s export products

  • NSW’s largest export products in 2023-24 were coal, international education and gold, comprising approximately 42% of total export value.
  • Improving the diversity of goods and services that NSW exports around the globe will build the resilience of the NSW economy.

Support 10,000 businesses over 10 years to grow and export into new markets

  • Investment NSW currently supports 800 businesses each year to export or to build their exporting capacity, with a target to grow this to 1,000 each year through new and existing initiatives.

Support the creation of 30,000 direct full time equivalent jobs through NSW Government investment attraction activities

  • Our aim is to increase the number of jobs created through NSW Government investment attraction activities to an average of 3,000 per year.

Attract $25 billion in investment to NSW, with $17.5 billion into the Industry Policy Missions

  • Targeting investment outcomes in the NSW Industry Policy missions – Housing, Net Zero & Energy Transition and Local Manufacturing – will be crucial to unlocking NSW’s economic potential, achieving the missions, and supporting government priorities.

During his mission to Korea and Japan, the Minister will advance the objectives of the Strategy in meetings with government and business leaders. He will also address an audience comprised of major Japanese businesses Expo 2025 in Osaka, where the NSW Government will host a major investment showcase at the Australian Pavilion.

The NSW Trade and Investment Strategy is aligned with the NSW Industry Policy – the overarching framework for delivering on the Government’s strategic priorities, and which also complements the goals of the Innovation Blueprint.

Read the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy here: https://www.investment.nsw.gov.au/why-nsw/resources/nsw-trade-and-investment-strategy/

Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“NSW is Australia’s leader in trade and investment, and through the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, we’ll take things to the next level.

“We have clear targets in place to grow exports, diversify the products we export and where they go, and support more NSW businesses with their international growth objectives.

“We will continue to position NSW as an attractive place for global investment and target outcomes associated with the Industry Policy Missions to deliver a more innovative and sustainable economy.

“NSW has numerous strengths – an extensive research and development sector, and unique advantages in sectors like digital technology, clean energy, defence and space, life sciences, health care, and agrifood.

“We have the skills, knowledge, and capabilities that make NSW a leading place to invest.

“My mission to Japan and the Republic of Korea has been targeted to promote the opportunities outlined in the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy.

“NSW is a long-standing and trusted trading partner to both Japan and the Republic of Korea.

“Opportunities also exist to turbo charge NSW housing by harnessing regional expertise in cutting edge building technology and encouraging investment in the housing sector.

“The NSW Government looks forward to leveraging our state’s global competitiveness to deliver better trade and investment outcomes for businesses and the people of NSW.”

Vacant, unused aged care home converted into housing for older women in the Hunter

A long-vacant aged care facility in Mount Hutton is now home to women over 55 experiencing homelessness, thanks to a groundbreaking project supported by the Minns Labor Government.

The former Anglicare site — sitting unused for years — has been converted into Lakeside Haven: 20 fully refurbished studio units offering safe, supported accommodation. Over the next five years, it’s expected to provide housing for up to 100 women in the Hunter.

The project is being delivered by Pacific Link Housing and Women’s Community Shelters, with more than $550,000 in funding from the NSW Government’s $100 million Homelessness Innovation Fund—helping to cover the costs to run the project, including fit-out and refurbishment, operating costs, and support staff.

Designed for women over 55, the property provides access to communal lounges, kitchens, laundry facilities, and gardens, and aims to help up to 100 women over its five-year lease term.

This is the first “meanwhile use” housing project in Lake Macquarie, part of a broader push by the NSW Labor Government to make better use of empty buildings and get people housed faster.

The Homelessness Innovation Fund is a key part of the Government’s historic $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW Program, which will build over 30,000 new and upgraded homes across the state – the largest investment ever in housing for NSW.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“Housing is a major concern for people in the Hunter – no one should have to worry about whether they’ll have a roof over their head.

“This new facility will provide women with the safety and stability of a home, surrounded by a supportive community of other women.

“I’m proud to be part of this announcement as we enhance the Hunter’s reputation as one of the best places in Australia to live, work and thrive.”

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said:

“This is exactly what we should be doing — taking empty buildings and turning them into homes for people who desperately need them.”

“This aged care home sat unused for years. Now it’s a lifeline for women who would otherwise be sleeping rough or stuck in motel rooms.”

Minister for Women and Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

“This Homelessness Innovation Fund project represents a significant step forward in our collective commitment to supporting vulnerable women in our community, particularly those facing the harsh realities of homelessness and domestic and family violence.

“Lakeside Haven is a great example of what’s possible when the New South Wales Government partners with incredible organisations such as Pacific Link Housing, Women’s Community Shelters and Anglicare, all of whom bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and compassion to the table.

“It’s through this ongoing collaboration that Lakeside Haven has become a reality and a place to restore hope, dignity, and security to women in need.”

Pacific Link Housing Group CEO Ian Lynch said:

“Lakeside Haven represents a significant step towards our mission of providing safe, secure and affordable housing for those in need.

“This collaborative project demonstrates our commitment to not just address immediate housing crises but to also create sustainable housing outcomes.

“Thanks to the support from the Homelessness Innovation Fund and our work with Women’s Community Shelters and Anglican Care, Lakeside Haven is turning a temporary solution into long-term stability for older women facing homelessness.”

Annabelle Daniel OAM CEO Women’s Community Shelters said:

“Women’s Community Shelters is proud to be standing beside cherished partners in opening a new safe haven for older women at risk of homelessness, and to be working with the Lake Macquarie community for the first time. At ‘Lakeside Haven’, women will access safety, housing and critical supports they need for a secure future.

“Our long-established model of revitalising vacant properties and turning them into safe and supported housing brings together the best of collaboration between the NSW Government, community housing providers, Women’s Community Shelters, corporate partners and the local community.

“We thank the NSW Government for embracing our ‘meanwhile use’ housing model as a pragmatic and immediate response to NSW’s housing crisis, and we look forward to opening more of these life-changing homes for women, where they can thrive with the respect and care they deserve.

Woman critically injured after car crashes into bus shelter – Lake Macquarie Police District

A woman has been critically injured after being hit while waiting at a bus stop in the state’s Hunter region.

About 4pm yesterday (Friday 16 May 2025), emergency services responded to reports that a car had crashed into a bus shelter along Main Road, Glendale.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a 28-year-old woman at the scene before she was taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition.

The 25-year-old male driver of the Holden Commodore sedan was taken to the same hospital for mandatory testing.

Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District established a crime scene, which was examined by specialist police from the Crash Investigation Unit.

Police have been told that the woman was inside the bus shelter at the time of the crash.

GREENS SECURE SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO MAKE LEVY FAIRER WITH EXEMPTIONS FOR FARMERS AND GUARANTEED FUNDING FOR FIREFIGHTERS

In the face of climate change, with increased bushfires, floods and storms, it’s critical that emergency services have the funding they need to keep the community safe. We only need to look to the fires in LA to see what happens when emergency services are under-resourced.

The Victorian Greens share the concerns that have been raised by farmers and firefighters about Labor’s changes to the fire services levy, and have pushed the government to make significant changes to make the levy fairer and ensure it commits real, additional funding for our emergency services and firefighters.

Labor’s original proposal had a lot of problems. It was going to redirect money from this levy to fund government administration, while leaving key emergency services like firefighters without the basic funding to replace their fleet of aging, unsafe firetrucks – which puts firefighters, and the whole community, at risk. 

In summary, the Greens have secured the following significant changes to gain our support for the legislation which also requires the support of other crossbench MPs to pass: 

  • Increased funding for emergency services – instead of the new levy providing no more than 87.5% of FRV annual funding, it will now be required to provide no less than 90% of FRV annual funding and no less than 95% of funding for the CFA and SES.
  • Guaranteed $10 million every year ongoing, for a rolling fleet replacement program for out-of-date firetrucks for FRV, on top of the funds for rolling fleet replacement for the CFA and additional money for vehicles for the SES.
  • Key amendments that ensure the levy is strictly used for frontline emergency services and not a dollar can be used for other government administration. 
  • Exemptions for farmers experiencing hardship due to drought. 
  • A significant additional drought relief package for farmers.
  • Additional $15 million for support for farmers to reduce their energy bills.
  • A commitment to a reduced levy rate for primary production land.

People expect that 100% of this levy go towards properly funding frontline emergency services we rely on, like safe and reliable firetrucks – which is why the Greens have ensured every dollar will go towards funding frontline emergency responders and have secured guaranteed funding for a rolling firetruck fleet replacement for both the FRV and CFA, which makes sure every firetruck is replaced when they reach retirement age. 

The Greens are deeply concerned about farmers facing drought and have secured changes that will exempt them from the increased levy and expand drought-affected areas to cover more farmers. We’ve also pushed the government to agree to a major drought relief package to be announced before the state Budget and significant additional support for farmers to reduce their energy bills.

All this legislation does is provide a legal tool to provide secure, ongoing funding for our emergency services into the future. The rate of the levy is not part of the legislation and is set by the Treasurer separately.

Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell: 

“With increased bushfires, floods and droughts, we need fully funded emergency services to keep us all safe – so we don’t face a horrific situation like the LA fires.

“Labor’s original levy had some serious problems, so the Greens pushed for significant changes. These changes mean farmers experiencing hardship from drought will be exempt from the increased levy, firefighters will have proper secure and ongoing funding including to replace their ageing trucks, and amendments will ensure every dollar goes to emergency services and can’t be spent to plug government budget holes.” 

GREENS SECURE INQUIRY INTO UNLOCKING FULL POTENTIAL OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

The Victorian Greens have successfully secured a parliamentary inquiry to investigate how we can unlock the full potential of electric vehicles (EV) to power our homes and the grid.

The inquiry will explore how electric vehicles can best support Victoria’s energy system without putting increased pressure on the during peak demand, and utilise them during times when renewable energy is plentiful.

EV batteries are around five times the size of household batteries and most trips only use a small portion of that stored power leaving plenty of capacity to power a home in the evening.

Australians bought 91,000 EVs last year with a combined battery storage capacity roughly equivalent* to all the big batteries built or under construction in Victoria, illustrating the storage potential of EVs.

The inquiry will consider how to make best use of this capacity, while avoiding a tangle of power cords snaking across inner city footpaths and uncoordinated, ill-timed demand on the grid.

And when drivers want to replace a tired old battery with reduced range, the inquiry will examine whether old EV batteries can have a second life as stationary household or community batteries.

Terms of reference include:
• Measures to reduce EV charging during peak demand and increase it during periods of peak renewable supply
• Whether public charging infrastructure is being rolled out at sufficient rates across different areas, including older suburbs with limited off-street parking
• The role of electricity distributors in EV charging rollout and how network tariffs should be set
• How to support broader EV take-up, including enabling bi-directional charging
• The potential for old EV batteries to be reused in household or community energy storage
• Opportunities and barriers in battery manufacturing, reconditioning, and recycling in Victoria
• Any other related matters

Victorian Greens MP, Dr Tim Read:

“We’ve secured this important inquiry because electric vehicles aren’t just a way to get from A to B – they’re batteries on wheels which can power your home or the grid. With the right policy settings, EVs can help more Victorians cut emissions, support our electricity grid, and lower energy bills.

“If we get this right, there will be synergy between EVs and a fully renewable energy grid, each supporting the other. The climate emergency means there’s no time to stuff it up.”

*Victoria currently has about 4.7 GWh of storage in big batteries built or under construction, equivalent to the storage capacity of 78,000 EV batteries (60kWh).

Greens Leader Shane Rattenbury welcomes new Australian Greens leadership team

Shane Rattenbury, Leader of the ACT Greens 

“On behalf of the membership of the ACT Greens, I want to sincerely congratulate Larissa Waters for her election as Federal Parliamentary Leader of the Australian Greens, following the election process this afternoon.

“I also congratulate Mehreen Faruqi on being elected as the Federal Deputy Parliamentary Leader of the Australian Greens.

“Over the past half-decade, Adam Bandt has shown what it means to lead with purpose, and has set a high standard for what growing the Greens movement looks like, and what people-powered politics can achieve.

“Now looking ahead, I’m confident this new leadership team has what it takes to guide our movement into its next chapter—growing our support and driving meaningful change with collaboration, but also with strong conviction.

“Despite the media spin and tireless work of major party commentators to bring down the Greens, we’ve seen a strong primary vote at this election–and while there is work to be done in growing our movement even more, well over a million Australians have put their faith in our party to fight for change.

“Not only do we hold the balance of power in the Senate, but across the country, the Greens are now in a two party contest in more winnable seats than ever before–setting us up for success at the next federal election.

“Having worked closely with both Larissa and Mehreen in the past, I’m confident in their ability to lead the party with strength and vision. I’m looking forward to working alongside them to deliver real outcomes for progressively minded Canberrans—especially on the issues that matter most: tackling climate change, protecting our precious natural environment, increasing bulk billing and building affordable housing.

“I will also be personally working with our new leadership team to deliver for the ACT. That will include pushing the Government to prioritise increased funding for light rail—so we can deliver it faster and extend it across all of Canberra.

“We will also work together to expand the representation of the ACT in the Senate to ensure Canberrans have a fair representation of their range of political views in the parliament.

NSW Government strengthens legal support for people with a cognitive impairment

The NSW Government is investing $14 million to strengthen support for people with a cognitive impairment who come into contact with the justice system.   

The Government is extending funding for the Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) which helps people understand their rights and responsibilities when interacting with police, legal representatives and the courts.  

The service is run by the Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS) and has been extended for another two years until 30 June 2027.  

It is available across the state, including in regional and remote areas, and has supported more than 9,000 people since 2019.  

JAS also provides a voluntary diversion service helping eligible defendants to provide evidence of their impairment, apply for a diversion order, and access the NDIS and other support services.  

This diversion service is available across six local courts – Downing Centre, Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, Gosford and Lismore – and has helped more than 900 clients since 2022.  

Attorney General Michael Daley said:  

“This funding extension ensures the Justice Advocacy Service can continue providing support to people with a cognitive impairment when they interact with police, legal representatives and the courts.  

“This is important to ensure equitable access to justice and fairness for vulnerable community members.”  

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:  

“Legal processes can be complex for anyone – but for people with a cognitive impairment, navigating the courts without adequate support can result in unjust outcomes with life shattering consequences.  

“Thanks to the Justice Advocacy Service, people with cognitive impairment can access the support and advice they need as witnesses, victims or defendants.  

“By extending this funding, we’re backing a service that makes sure people’s needs are understood which helps to ensure everyone in our courts gets a fair hearing.”  

Intellectual Disability Rights Service Chief Executive Officer Joanne Yates said:  

“The Justice Advocacy Service supports more than 2,500 people with a cognitive impairment in their criminal proceedings each year.  

“JAS advocates contribute to the effective operations of the courts. Our work is critical in supporting vulnerable people with intellectual disability. This includes keeping them out of prison and diverting them into support services as appropriate.  

“We welcome the extension of our vital funding for these next two years and thank the Attorney General and the Minister for their ongoing support”.  

A former Justice Advocacy Service client said:  

“JAS saved me when I was at my lowest point in life and through their work has given me so many opportunities. I’m working and I can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done for me.  

“It changes lives in so many ways, support is unreal, they spend extra time with court matters.  

“It will keep a lot of people out of prison, having the diversion in courts is really beneficial for people with intellectual disability as it is keeping them out of somewhere that will make them even more vulnerable than they already are.”   

NSW Government publishes report from Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding

The NSW Government has today released the report from the Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding.

This delivers on an election commitment from the Minns Labor Government to have an inquiry into healthcare spending.

The commission, led by Hon. Justice Richard Beasly, found the NSW Health system to be a high performing one with the treatment and care it provides to be among the best in the world.

As with any large and complex organisation, there is always room for improvement.

The inquiry received 226 written submissions as well as heard testimony from 225 witnesses over 70 days of hearings, including patients, providers and policy experts.

The inquiry also visited every local health district and specialty health network across metropolitan as well as regional NSW, including meeting management, clinicians, health consumers, and healthcare providers such as General Practitioners, Non-Government Organisations, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and Aboriginal Medical Services.

From this, the report has produced 41 recommendations across 12 priority areas including:

  • the need for allied and preventative healthcare
  • challenges around primary and aged care
  • the health workforce
  • statewide health service planning
  • procurement processes
  • innovation.

The Government will now carefully consider these findings and respond in due course.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“I want to say from the outset that the NSW health system is one of the highest performing in the world, supported by the most talented and dedicated clinicians and workers.

“It doesn’t mean that we don’t have our challenges, and it doesn’t mean we can’t find more ways to improve.

“This is why we delivered on our election commitment to establish a Special Commission of Inquiry into healthcare spending.

“I am so grateful to the commission and the many people from every level of our health system who generously shared their insights with the inquiry.

“It is now time to give the findings and recommendations of this report the consideration it deserves.”

Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes:

“We have an opportunity to fundamentally shift our health system’s focus by embracing this report.

“We know the future of healthcare is in allied and preventative care, which will keep people out of hospital and help them recover faster.

“The HSU is ready to work with the state government to implement the reforms recommended in the report, which will improve the health of the people of NSW.

“Shifting our attention from costly emergency and surgical intervention to allied and preventative care will save money and improve peoples’ health, which is not only good for individuals but the wider community.”

Big Boost for Active Transport: Walk Safely to School Day

The Minns Labor Government is continuing to prioritise safety and accessibility for school students, with a $10 million boost in walking and cycling infrastructure near schools.

Some 24 locations will receive improvements including new and upgraded shared paths, footpaths and raised pedestrian crossings that make it safer for children and parents to walk to school.

The funding announced today coincides with NSW Walk Safely to School Day. It is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to building better communities through essential infrastructure.

Data shows less than one in four NSW school children currently walk or ride to and from school, while over 70 per cent of parents and carers indicated they would like to walk to school with their children most days. Children are only spending 18 minutes per day walking or riding a bike, less than a third of the daily recommendation.

National Walk Safely to School Day is a Pedestrian Council of Australia initiative that falls within National Road Safety Week, an annual initiative of Safer Australian Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group to encourage safer behaviour on our roads.

This builds on funding programs to deliver safety around schools, including through measures such as school zones, flashing lights and the NSW Road Safety Education Program.

Examples of projects funded by the program include:

  • $979,489 towards the removal of the Children’s Crossing and the installation of a raised pedestrian crossing with a pedestrian refuge island and speed cushion on Greenbridge Drive in Wilton.
  • $807,180 towards the North Lismore Connections project, delivering safe pathways linking residents to the CBD, sporting fields, showgrounds, and the proposed high school, enhancing active transport, connectivity, and safety.
  • $795,421.55 towards the construction of a 3m wide shared path on Tennant Street Bellbird from Balangara Way to Sparke St, and a 1.8m wide walking path on Doyle Street, including a pedestrian refuge at the Sparke Street and Doyle Street intersection.
  • $758,911 towards improving pedestrian crossing safety at the Conadilly-Henry Street intersection in Gunnedah, reducing conflicts between pedestrians and 26-meter B-double vehicles near a school, church, and businesses.
  • $615,000 towards the construction of a 3.0m wide shared path along Military Road in Port Kembla and a 1.5m wide footpath along Olympic Boulevard, connecting the Foreshore, Town Centre, and Train Station to community facilities and public transport.

View a full list of projects funded by the program here:

For more information on Walk Safely to School Day, visit the 2025 Walk Safely to School Day web page.

Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:

“On this Walk Safely to School Day, I’m delighted to share details of the $10 million worth of active transport projects that have been funded by the NSW Government.

“Tragically, two child pedestrians died and 36 were seriously injured in active school zones in the five-year period from 2019 to 2023.

“Improving safety is our number one priority. We want parents and carers to feel confident to walk, ride and scoot their kids to school – it’s critically important to their mental and physical health.

“Children are only spending 18 minutes per day – less than one third of the recommended daily time – walking or riding a bike. I encourage parents to leave the car at home and take the time to walk or cycle with their kids, always hold their hand when walking on the footpath and cross at pedestrian crossings.” 

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“There are so many benefits for children walking or riding safely to school. It builds independence and self-confidence, improves health and can establish being active as a lifelong pattern.

“The reduction in traffic congestion on the road network when we have fewer parents in fewer cars doing fewer trips to school is another positive result of kids getting to school on foot or by bike or scooter.

“Upgraded and wider footpaths, quality crossings and more trees are among the small changes that can make a big difference to getting kids active on the way to school.”

Pedestrian Council of Australia CEO Harold Scruby said:    

“As our motto says – active kids are healthy kids, and the best form of physical activity for all Australians is walking regularly. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We also encourage parents and carers to take their children on a walk to school each day to teach them life-long road safety habits. 

“Being active every day, including walking to school, provides social, emotional, physical and mental health benefits, including improving self-esteem and confidence and helping concentration.  And the best way to do this is to build walking into your daily routine. 

“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. Remember to hold your child’s hand and always stop, look, listen and think before crossing the road.”