A study from the International Workplace Group highlights that the vast majority of Australians who commute by bike report significant benefits, with more than one-third (40%) pointing to financial savings as a top motivator.

Specifically, 81% say cycling improves their physical health, 75% experience better mental wellbeing, and 72% notice a positive effect on their financial situation.

Damien Sheehan, Country Head of IWG Australia, said cycling to work, combined with flexible work arrangements, is a smart strategy for improving overall wellbeing.

“Cycling to work is more than just a healthy lifestyle choice - it’s a smart financial move that delivers real cost savings, reducing transport expenses, fuel costs, and time spent commuting,” Mr Sheehan said. 

“As Australians look for ways to manage rising cost-of-living, combining flexible work with active transport can deliver real savings and better health outcomes.”

Cycling vs driving to work

For Australians who don’t ride to work, most are still behind the wheel, with 71% relying on a car to get to the office. But the cost of driving adds up fast. 

Swapping four wheels for two could mean serious savings with a daily car commute to the CBD, draining between $7,400 for a 5-km commute and $14,600 for a 25-km commute a year, according to data from the Bicycle Network.

Broader findings from the International Workplace Group reflect this, with data showing Sydney commuters could cut almost $6,000 annually by working closer to home two to three days a week.

Despite the clear benefits, many Australian cyclists face barriers to commuting by bike, including concerns about driver safety, unfavourable weather, physical fitness challenges, and lack of confidence.

Around 70% of Australian cyclists are urging drivers to enhance road safety for bike commuters and calling on governments to invest in better infrastructure to make cycling safer and more accessible.

The survey targeted 1,001 Australian bike riders aged 18 and over, focusing on white-collar professionals from a mix of cities, suburbs, and regional areas.