The Commuter’s Challenge

Let’s help you inspire your non-cycling friends to support the push for better bike infrastructure by introducing them to the Commuter’s Challenge!

Holiday traffic vs school traffic

January often brings a noticeable drop in traffic, making the commute to work quicker and less stressful without the usual school rush. Here’s a simple yet powerful idea: encourage your friends and family who drive to record their commute times now, during the holiday period, and then compare them to their commute times in three weeks when school traffic resumes.

This exercise highlights the impact of traffic congestion and opens up a conversation about how improved bike infrastructure can ease the pressure on roads, benefiting everyone - not just cyclists!

Bicycle NSW is committed to transforming the way we move by campaigning for safe, separated cycling infrastructure that can help reduce congestion and create healthier, more sustainable communities. The impact of such infrastructure goes beyond convenience—it's about enabling a lifestyle change that can make cycling the preferred mode of transport for thousands of children traveling to school, rather than being driven.

When cycling infrastructure is safe and separated, it empowers more people to feel comfortable and confident choosing bikes for their journeys. This, in turn, alleviates pressure on roads, buses, and trains, freeing up space for those who need to travel greater distances, transport heavy equipment, or may not have the option to walk or ride. By addressing these needs, we create a transportation network that works for everyone.

Traveling to school alone contributes to a significant portion of peak-hour traffic—up to 10% in Sydney. That means one in every 20 cars on the road is part of the school rush. With projections showing an increase of 267,000 school-age children in NSW over the next 15 years, it's clear that without meaningful investment in cycling and active transport infrastructure, traffic congestion and emissions will worsen dramatically.

The potential benefits of cycleways extend well beyond the commute to school. We've seen entire schools embrace bike riding and active travel once proper facilities are introduced. Cycleways offer an opportunity to not only decongest roads but also to combat urban heat, reduce carbon pollution, and contribute to a cleaner, greener environment.

Furthermore, the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey reveals that 28% of workers live in the same postcode as their workplace, and 55% reside within 10km. This means that with the right facilities in place, countless motor vehicle trips could be replaced by active transport journeys. Imagine the collective impact on traffic congestion, air quality, and individual well-being if more people felt safe enough to cycle or walk.

Bicycle NSW believes that the time for action is now. With a growing population and increasing pressure on our transport systems, investing in safe cycling infrastructure is not just a solution to immediate problems—it's a step toward a more sustainable future. By championing these changes, we can create a transportation network that benefits everyone and ensures cycling becomes an integral part of daily life across NSW.

Take our challenge

“If your friend gets frustrated about being stuck in traffic, why not encourage them to note the areas they drive through, and email the councils along their route to ask for safe separated cycleways,” said former General Manager of Public Affairs, Bastien Wallace.

“Supporting active transport offers huge community, health, environment and congestion benefits for everyone,” said Bastien.

Bicycle NSW encourages Members to promote the Commuter's Challenge and use the tag #BNSWTimeChallenge to share the results.

The first step? Join Bicycle NSW today!

Becoming a Bicycle NSW Member or Supporter is your chance to make a real difference in shaping a safer, more connected cycling future for everyone across New South Wales. From just $29 a year, you can help us push for better cycling infrastructure, advocate for your rights as a rider, and create positive change for our communities.

Why join as a Member or Supporter?

You’ll be empowering our advocacy to make roads safer for cyclists.
Gain access to exclusive Members' benefits, including discounts, resources, and insurance options.
Be part of a passionate community working together for a cleaner, greener future.

Join now and help us pedal toward a brighter future for cycling in NSW!