On Friday 1 October, 1999 the Pedestrian Council of Australia is encouraging all people in New South Wales and Canberra to leave their cars at home and combine walking and public transport to travel to and from work. The project has received support from a range of New South Wales public and private sector agencies, along with community leaders and media identities.

 Aims of the day include:-

• promotion of walking as an important transport mode and healthy activity, reduced reliance on the private motor vehicle to and from work;
• promote and improve the use of public transport; and
• improve air quality by reducing unnecessary vehicle emissions.

One of the activities being promoted by the Pedestrian Council of Australia in the period leading up to the Walk to Work Day is the signing of 'The Hero's Pledge' as part of the Council's "Walking Class Heroes" promotion. The pledge endeavours to obtain a commitment by Chief Executives, Managers etc to encourage use of public transport on Walk to Work Day.

I wish to encourage participation by the New South Wales public sector in the spirit of the day. I recognise that it will not be feasible for many officers to forsake private motor vehicle travel altogether, however, any encouragement to staff should be supported.

I would encourage Ministers and Chief Executive Officers to sign the pledge and participate in the spirit of the event. A copy of the pledge is attached to this Memorandum.

A Refshauge
A/Premier

Issue: Office of the Director General
Contact: Alex Smith
Telephone: 92283323
16/7/1999