Run My Way

Running is one of the most popular and accessible forms of physical activity and active transport. In recent years, we've seen a surge in running events and a rise in local and global run clubs — creating more opportunities than ever for people to connect through movement. 

The Run My Way program is focused on improving safety and inclusivity for women, girls, and gender diverse people who run—especially in public spaces and in the dark. The initiative includes:

• Research into running habits and safety perceptions among women and gender diverse people.
• Partnerships with running providers to conduct qualitative research and trial safety-focused interventions.
• Trials of best-practice interventions identified by the research, surveys and stakeholder engagement.

Why it matters

Running should be about freedom, health and empowerment. 

Yet for many women, girls and gender diverse people, this freedom is often constrained by fear, harassment and perceived safety risks—especially in public spaces and during early or late hours. 

The Run My Way program is working to change that by gathering insights from runners across NSW to understand their motivations, barriers and how safety perceptions shape their habits. By sharing the survey, runners are helping build an evidence base that will inform future programs and infrastructure—creating safer, more inclusive environments for everyone. 

This is a program built on listening, learning and acting, with real voices driving real change.