Police will be out in force across NSW over the Australia Day weekend. Photo: Region.
The NSW school holidays are coming to an end, the Christmas break is almost over and a long weekend is on the way – the perfect recipe for traffic chaos on NSW roads.
Police have warned they will be out in force across the state during the Australia Day long weekend, with a particular focus on stopping speeding and alcohol-affected drivers.
Operation Australia Day will run from Friday 23 January to Monday 26 January targeting dangerous and high-risk driver behaviour.
Double demerits will be in place for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.
The high-visibility police operation involves officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command with the assistance of general duties and specialist police from all police commands and districts across the state.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner David Driver said the operation was about preventing tragedy.
“Our message is that if you are travelling on our roads this weekend then we want everyone to reach their destination safely,” he said.
“Too many lives are lost on our roads because of poor decisions.
“If you plan on drinking, then have a plan B and don’t drive. Even speeding a couple of kilometres over the speed limit increases the risk of crashing, so don’t do it.
“One moment of inattention can have lifelong consequences.”
In 2025 NSW recorded 355 road deaths, the deadliest year since 2017, when there were 392 deaths.
The NSW Government says speed remains the biggest killer on NSW roads.
Last year 134 people died in crashes where speeding was a contributing factor, representing almost four in every 10 deaths.
Ten lives have already been lost on NSW roads this year.
NSW Acting Police Minister Paul Scully said too many families had their lives shattered by dangerous driving.
“This long weekend police will be out in force to keep people safe on our roads. Double demerits are in place and enforcement will be highly visible. Speeding, drink or drug driving, using your phone or not wearing a seatbelt are choices that can cost lives.
“If you’re travelling this long weekend, plan ahead, be patient, drive to the conditions and don’t drive fatigued.
“The goal of this operation is simple. We want everyone to get where they’re going safely and return home to their loved ones.”
Motorists are also reminded that school zones return from 27 January and to be alert for children, even on pupil free days.
Plan your trip by downloading the Live Traffic NSW app, visiting Live Traffic, calling 132 701, or using the TfNSW journey planning tool.
Members of the public are urged to report motorists engaged in dangerous driving to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
