WA schools to share in $20,000 for walking and cycling infrastructure

Schools across WA participating in the Your Move program will have access to $20,000 in Connecting Schools Grants to upgrade cycling and walking infrastructure at their schools, making it easier for kids to get more active on their school commute.

The Department of Transport's (DoT) 2018/19 Connecting Schools Grants have been revamped and integrated into the Your Move program and the updated website makes the grant process easier.

DoT Executive Director Transport Strategy and Reform Brett Hughes said that 71 schools across WA were already part of the free Your Move program and will now be eligible for the grants.

"We know that kids need to get more movement in their day; choosing to walk, cycle or scoot on the school commute is an easy way for kids and parents to get more active," Dr Hughes said.

"The grants which range from $750 to $5,000 can be used by schools to fund bike parking/shelters, bike education, wayfinding signage and even bike racks and repair stations, making it easier and more fun for kids walking, cycling or scooting to school."

"The Your Move Schools program works with WA schools to find ways to get students and parents to leave the car behind and get moving on their school journey. These grants help provide infrastructure to make these activities easier and safer."

The grants are available until December 2018. Schools already signed up to the Your Move program will automatically qualify for the grants when they reach a certain accreditation level - the more actively engaged a school is in the Your Move program, the more funding for which they are eligible.

Any school can sign up to the Your Move program through the Your Move website. Schools are able to access many resources, including tips and advice on how to get kids more active for free. The program facilitates easy collaboration between schools to share success and information.

For more information on the grants please visit Your Move website.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au