The "Get Back on Ya Bike" campaign encourages residents to donate unused bikes so they can be gifted to new and international students.

Project co-organiser Renae Riviere said the project aimed to provide cheap, accessible transport for students, as well as reduce traffic congestion at the university.

"It's the start of the academic year so we know there's a lot of international students coming to study who don't have access to cars," she said.

"If we give them a bike, it will help them get around the campus; there's also so many great bike tracks around here so it's a chance for them to get out and get fit too. Traffic around the university is notoriously bad so more people riding bikes will help release the parking pressure and pressure on buses."

The project's organisers have already received 30 bikes, along with helmets and other gear, but need many more to meet the demand.

Ms Riviere called on home owners to clean out their sheds and garages and donate any old bikes - including cycles with baskets or ribbons.

"We'll take any bikes as long as they're in reasonable working condition and don't need much repair or maintenance," she said.

"Some people move here to lecture or study for about 12 months and they bring their family with them so we need kids' bikes too.

"We've already had donations; I'm surprised by how many people who have bikes just lying about."

If the drive is successful, the team plans to host other free bike events including bike maintenance workshops.

Donations can be made on February 21 at the Sustainable Buildings Research Centre at the Innovation Campus in Fairy Meadow between 10am and noon.

The team is also looking for volunteers to help give the bikes a "health check" and carry out minor maintenance, along with anyone who can supply bike parts.

Email getbackonyabike@gmail.com for more information.