School Zone Speed limits Are Back In Force
As the school bells ring for the first time in 2026 with thousands of students returning to classrooms across Australia, it’s the perfect moment for all motorists to reset, refocus and recommit to road safety around schools.
School zone speed limits are now back in force, and that means slowing down, staying alert, and remembering that children can be unpredictable near roads. Whether they’re walking with friends or siblings, riding their bikes, or stepping onto a pedestrian crossing, kids rely on adults — including our school crossing supervisors — to create a safe, predictable environment around them.
Respect Our School Crossing Supervisors
School crossing supervisors play a vital role in keeping children safe, especially during the busiest times of the day. They are there to protect students, manage traffic flow and ensure everyone gets across the road safely.
Slow down as soon as you see signs indicating a school crossing ahead. Reducing your speed early gives you time to react and ensures you approach the crossing safely and predictably.
Always stop when a supervisor displays the stop sign.
Never inch forward or try to slip through once children begin crossing and have yet to cross to the other side.
Follow their instructions promptly and respectfully — they see risks you may not.
Be patient. A short wait can make a life‑changing difference for a child and the school crossing supervisor.
School crossing supervisors are part of the school community and their job is to protect children, and your cooperation helps them do it well.
Simple Actions That Make a Big Difference
Slow down and stay alert
School zones are enforced for a reason. Children are smaller, harder to see, and often unpredictable. Reducing your speed gives you more time to react.
Park legally and respectfully
Avoid double parking, blocking driveways, or stopping in unsafe areas. Use designated drop‑off and pick‑up zones, and always have children exit and enter the car from the kerb side.
Be prepared for the unexpected
Give way to school buses pulling out and stay alert for children who may run from behind or in front of parked cars or buses. Take extra care when entering or leaving driveways, as kids can appear suddenly, especially during busy morning and afternoon times.
Don’t rush
Build a few extra minutes into your morning routine. A calmer start means safer decisions on the road.
TIPS FOR PARENTS & CARERS: Road safety starts long before the school gate.
Teach driveway awareness
Show children how to look for vehicles entering or exiting driveways, and remind them never to play behind parked cars or chase balls onto the road.
Show kids the safest way to cross when getting off the bus
Talk to your child about waiting until the bus has completely pulled out and moved away before crossing the road. Explain that standing back on the footpath and letting the bus leave gives them a clear view of oncoming cars — and just as importantly, it allows drivers to see them. This simple habit can prevent dangerous blind spots and keep them safer on their way to and from school.
Talk about headphone and phone safety
Listening to music or scrolling while crossing the road can make it harder to hear or see approaching traffic. Encourage kids to keep devices away until they’re safely across.
Plan the safest route together
Choose paths with less traffic, fewer crossings, and clear footpaths. Walk the route with your child so they know exactly where to go and how to navigate tricky spots.
Let’s have a safe start to the school year and a safe, successful year ahead, because everyone deserves to get home safely.