Sanctuary Runners Australia is a new initiative in 2026 to bring together people of different backgrounds through running, walking, and jogging to foster solidarity, friendship and respect. Free to join and open to all, Sanctuary Runners Australia focuses particularly on building connections between people who have more recently arrived in Australia – as refugees, migrants, people seeking asylum or on temporary visas – and longer-term Australian residents and citizens.
Who is supporting Sanctuary Runners Australia
Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) and Sanctuary Runners in Ireland are working together to develop Sanctuary Runners Australia. While RCOA is providing administrative support, Sanctuary Runners Australia is a movement of volunteers, open to the involvement of people who support its objectives.
A growing number of Australian organisations are actively supporting the initiative, helping to promote Sanctuary Runners Australia to people who have recently arrived in Australia and to others who believe that running and walking can help to promote community cohesion and well-being.
Participation in Sanctuary Runners is free and the organisation’s famous blue shirts are given at no charge to people who want to be part of the movement, to ensure that no one is excluded. People who wish to give financial support to help the movement grow can make tax-deductible donations to Sanctuary Runners Australia through RCOA.
How can I get involved
The first Sanctuary Runners Australia group is being formed in Western Sydney, with the initial activity planned for Saturday 21 March 2026. Members of the group will participate in local 5km parkrun events held at different venues on Saturday mornings. Later in 2026, this group will encourage people to run or walk together in other fun run events.
To get involved in Sanctuary Runners Australia, please register here