National Road Safety Week 2026 begins today, with Australians being urged to put down their phones and focus on safer driving habits as alarming new research reveals many motorists continue to engage in risky behaviour behind the wheel.
Running from May 17 to 24, the week-long campaign shines a spotlight on road safety across the country and remembers the lives lost on Australian roads each year.
This year’s campaign is heavily focused on driver distraction, particularly mobile phone use, following the release of the NRSW 2026 National Driving Behaviour Report.
The report found 92 per cent of Australian drivers agree using a mobile phone while driving is dangerous, yet many still admit to risky habits including checking notifications, reading texts at traffic lights and even filming videos while behind the wheel.
Among younger drivers, the figures were especially concerning, with almost two-thirds of Gen Z drivers admitting to reading text messages at red lights, while half said they had taken a photo or video while driving.
National Road Safety Week founder Peter Frazer OAM said the research highlights the growing challenge of distracted driving.
“For National Road Safety Week 2026, we are focusing on distraction,” Mr Frazer said.
“We are asking all drivers to choose to put down their phones, clear their minds, and give the road the full attention it demands.”
The report also revealed New South Wales drivers were among the most likely in the country to check their phones shortly after receiving notifications, while NSW motorists also rated themselves the most overconfident drivers nationally.
Throughout the week, landmarks, bridges and roads around Australia will light up yellow in support of the campaign, while emergency services, community groups and road safety organisations host awareness activities and events.
Australians are also being encouraged to make a pledge to drive safely and help ensure everyone gets home safely every day.
