Australian families encouraged to Wear Red on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, to support rural and remote education
The Isolated Children's Parents' Association (ICPA) is proud to announce the return of Rural and Remote Education Day (RREd Day) on Wednesday, 16 September 2026.
Building on the success of the past two years, RREd Day returns as a national awareness initiative, shining a spotlight on the unique challenges faced by students and families living in rural, remote and isolated Australia, while celebrating the resilience of these communities.
RREd Day provides an opportunity for schools, families, businesses, community organisations and supporters from across Australia to unite in advocating for equitable access to education, regardless of where a child lives.
The 2026 campaign once again encourages everyone to Wear Red for Rural and Remote Education. Participants are invited to wear red, take a photo and share it on social media using #WearRREd26 to help raise awareness of the educational challenges experienced by geographically isolated students.
ICPA Australia Federal President, Louise Martin, is encouraging Australians to get involved and help keep rural and remote education firmly on the national agenda.
"Every child deserves access to quality education, no matter where they live. While much has been achieved over the past 55 years through ICPA's advocacy, there is still more work to be done to ensure rural and remote students have equitable opportunities to learn, connect and thrive.
RREd Day is a simple but powerful way for communities across Australia to stand together, start conversations and show their support for better educational outcomes for rural and remote children."
Exciting prizes up for grabs
Thanks to the generous support of ICPA Australia's partners, participants have the opportunity to win some fantastic prizes by getting involved in this year's campaign.
Prizes include:
- A major individual prize for one outstanding RREd Day participant.
- A school prize recognising an outstanding school that embraces the campaign.
- NEW for 2026: A Branch Engagement Award recognising the ICPA Branch that demonstrates the highest level of participation and creativity in promoting RREd Day across its community.
Whether you're an individual, school or ICPA Branch, simply wear red, capture your celebrations and share them online using #WearRREd26 to be in the running.
How to get involved
Taking part is easy:
- Wear something red on Wednesday, 16 September 2026
- Take a photo or short video
- Share it on social media using #WearRREd26
- Encourage your school, workplace, community or local ICPA Branch to join in
"Wearing red is more than making a statement," said Ms Martin.
"It represents the heart of rural and remote Australia, the red earth that connects our communities and the children whose educational opportunities depend on continued advocacy. Every photo shared helps amplify our message and reminds decision-makers that equitable education matters."
ICPA Australia looks forward to another strong national campaign and encourages Australians everywhere to stand with rural and remote families by wearing red this September.
