As we move through 2026, I wanted to share what we have achieved together so far this year and where we are heading next.
Advocacy and infrastructure progress
Cost of living pressures continue to rise, and with more than 50% of car trips in Australia under 4.2 kilometres, many of these trips could be walked or ridden.
We are active positioning bike riding as a practical, low-cost transport option. Our 'how to get started' content is gaining strong engagement, supported by national media including ABC Conversation Hour.
E-bikes remain a major focus. There is growing confusion in the market with illegal high-powered devices being sold as e-bikes, contributing to serious injuries and fatalities.
Nationally, government transport ministers are working together to rid our roads of illegal e-bikes, and we welcome the introduction of European EN15194 standards and stronger retail regulation to remove unsafe products from the market.
However, we don't want to see legal e-bikes penalised, so will be keeping a watch on what is being recommended and supporting Queensland riders in their fight against recently announced draconian laws. Legal e-bikes are bicycles and are helping more people ride, especially older Australians and those returning to cycling. We do not support licensing requirements.
Data that drives change
In March, nearly 1,000 Bicycle Network volunteers delivered Super Tuesday counts across 920 sites in 55 local government areas across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania.
This is data no automated system can capture, including gender, age and bike type. It matters, because when safe infrastructure is built, the data shows that more people ride. Participation grows; diversity improves. This evidence directly supports investment decisions and better outcomes.
Victoria and beyond
We welcomed the release of the Victorian Government’s new Active Transport Plan, which recognises that bike riding is a core part of the transport system, not an optional extra. But it lacks clear priorities and timelines.
We have met with Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams to reinforce the need for the state government to work closely with councils to ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality bike infrastructure. This alignment is critical, as without it, we see fragmented delivery, inconsistent standards and reduced safety. We will provide further updates when we can.
A clear success
The West Gate Tunnel Project active transport network is now complete. The Federation Trail is now one continuous bike route from Werribee right into the Melbourne CBD. The project delivered 14 kilometres of new and upgraded active transport paths, and riders are loving the new facilities.
The Super Tuesday count confirmed that Melbourne's new Veloway – a project Bicycle Network advocated for and advised on for many years – is a hit. A total of 600 riders took the Veloway during a two-hour morning period with just 32 riders taking the old route along the road. This is what good infrastructure delivers!
We are now focused on the next priority in Melbourne's west: the West Link connection to West Footscray Station.
A clear setback
The narrowing of the Elizabeth Street bike lanes in Melbourne's City of Yarra is a step backwards. This is a Strategic Cycling Corridor planned over decades and reducing it compromises safety and network performance.
State-planned corridors must be delivered consistently with strong coordination between state and local government. We will continue to advocate strongly for these lanes to be restored to appropriate standards.
Tasmania
Beyond Victoria, we are continuing to contribute to cycling plans nationally, including by supporting Hobart’s first city-wide bike plan in nearly 30 years, an important step forward in growing everyday riding.
Events and community
Peaks Challenge Falls Creek once again brought thousands of riders together from across Australia. From first-time participants to sub-10 finishers, the event showcased determination, community and a shared passion for riding. It also raised over $50,000 through Peaks Legends fundraising, supporting programs for children and schools.
Next up is Gravel Macedon on 17 May 2026, responding to growing interest in new ways to ride.
Programs that make a difference
Recently we celebrated Ride2School Day, one of our most important initiatives in encouraging the next generation to ride. This year around 350,000 students participated nationally. We established this program in 2006 and it continues to grow.
I joined Newport Gardens Primary School alongside Federal MP Tim Watts. Initiatives like this build lifelong habits and support healthier, more active communities.
Looking ahead
There is always more to do.
Riding remains one of the most affordable and practical ways to get around. We will continue to advocate for the infrastructure and policies needed to make riding safe and accessible for everyone.
We are also investing in new ways to support our members, including our rewards platform Cliqit, helping members save on everyday purchases while supporting our work.
Thank you
None of this work happens without you.
Your support enables our advocacy, programs and impact.
Thank you for being part of Bicycle Network.
Ride safe,
Alison McCormack
Chief Executive Officer
April 2026