Safe driving reminder as school year starts

Published on 03 February 2025

It’s back to school time, and time to remember to drive carefully around school zones.

Gunnedah Shire Council Manager Community Safety Wade Berryman said the start of the school year was a busy time on the roads as students and parents navigated new schools or returned to school.

“Many children are starting at a new school, and there will be confusion about where to go and how to get there,” Mr Berryman said.

“It is important for all of us to remember to be patient with other drivers, always be on the lookout for pedestrians, and to follow the road and parking rules.

“Drivers should allow plenty of time, familiarise themselves with the parking and school zones, and accept they may not be able to park right outside the school. The first priority is safety.”

Some tips for safe driving and parking when travelling to and from school:

• Always follow the road rules and signs
• Do not expect to park close to your school – drop-off and pick-up times are busy. You might need to park further away and walk your child to school
• Know where the school speed zones are and where parking is available around the school
• Remember not to:
  - Park across driveways;
  - Park within 3m of a double centre line;
  - Park on a path or nature strip;
  - Park within 10m of an intersection;
  - Stop at a no stopping or no parking area;
  - Park or stop in a bus or taxi zone; or
  - Double park.

To find out more about parking rules in New South Wales, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/roads-safety-and-rules/parking/parking-rules