'7 kids a year die in Australia driveways'

An average seven children die from being accidentally run over in Australian driveways each year.

The driver is usually a parent, relative or family friend who, in the majority of cases, simply didn't know the child was outside or close to the vehicle, Kidsafe Victoria vice president Robert Caulfield said.

The 2015 Kidsafe Return to School Safe campaign was launched in Ivanhoe with the help of families and children minister Jenny Mikakos on Wednesday.

"The (run over) numbers are fairly static which is really good news considering the number of cars on the road, distances travelled and number of kids is always growing," Mr Caulfield told reporters.

"We're making some major inroads but there is always a long way to go.

"We won't be satisfied until there are no injuries and deaths."

The warning comes as Victorian students head back to school on Thursday.

Victoria Police will also patrol school zones, and drivers are reminded to stick to the 40 kilometre per hour speed limit.