School zones across New South Wales have resumed this week as students and teachers begin returning for the 2026 school year.
While the first days of Term 1 are typically staff development days for teachers, many students are also returning to classrooms, with attendance increasing throughout the week. Non-government schools often commence earlier than public schools, prompting Transport for NSW to reintroduce 40 km/h school zone speed limits from Tuesday, regardless of individual school start dates.
Drivers are being reminded to stay alert and reduce speed around all school areas, particularly in locations where multiple schools operate on different schedules.
“To avoid confusion and ensure the safety of all children, school zone speed limits will apply uniformly from Tuesday,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
School zone speed limits are enforced on school days from 8.00 am to 9.30 am and 2.30 pm to 4.00 pm. Motorists caught speeding face significant fines and demerit points.
For more information, visit transport.nsw.gov.au/school-zones.
Council urges caution around school zones
Gunnedah Shire Council is calling on drivers to prioritise safety as local students return to school this week.
Council’s Manager of Community Safety, Tony Krawczyk, said the start of the school year is a timely reminder for all road users to be extra cautious.
“The school run can be hectic and unpredictable. Drivers need to be patient, keep an eye out for children, and strictly follow road and parking rules – especially around school zones,” Mr Krawczyk said.
He urged drivers to allow extra time for school drop-off and pick-up, and to familiarise themselves with school zone operating times and parking restrictions.
“You may not be able to park right outside the school gate – and that’s okay. The priority must always be the safety of children and the broader community.”
Pedestrians are also being asked to play their part by using marked crossings and avoiding unsafe road crossings.
“Safety is a shared responsibility. We all want children to arrive at school and get home safely each day,” Mr Krawczyk said.
Council’s Compliance Officers will step up patrols in school areas over the coming weeks, focusing on driver education and community awareness.
“Our officers are there to support a safe environment. While our preference is education, enforcement action may be taken if serious breaches occur,” Mr Krawczyk said.
Gunnedah Shire Council has issued the following advice for parents, carers, and all drivers around schools:
Driving tips:
- Obey all road rules and signage.
- Expect delays – arrive early and be prepared to walk your child to school.
- Be aware of where school zones begin and end.
Parking rules to remember:
- Do not park across driveways.
- Do not park within 3 metres of double centre lines.
- Do not park on footpaths or nature strips.
- Do not park within 10 metres of an intersection.
- Do not stop in No Stopping or No Parking zones.
- Do not park or stop in bus or taxi zones.
- Do not double park.
Further information on parking rules in NSW is available at nsw.gov.au/parking-rules.
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