As thousands of motorists prepare to take to the roads this Easter long weekend, NSW Police are urging drivers to slow down and take extra care amid a concerning rise in road fatalities across the state.
Operation Easter 2026 will see a high-visibility police presence from 12.01 am Thursday 2 April through to 11.59 pm Monday 6 April, coinciding with one of the busiest travel periods of the year as families head away for the long weekend and school holidays.
Officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, alongside general duties and specialist police from across NSW, will be out in force targeting dangerous driving behaviour. A double demerits period will also be in place, focusing on speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt and helmet offences.
The renewed warning comes as the state records 90 lives lost on NSW roads so far this year — nine more than the same time last year.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the impact of road trauma extends far beyond the crash itself.
“Behind every life lost on the roads is a family left with a lifetime of grief and officers who carry the weight of what they’ve seen long after the sirens stop,” Minister Catley said.
“This Easter, we’re asking drivers to think about the people that matter most to them and slow down, drive to the conditions and make smart choices.
“Police will be out in force targeting illegal, reckless behaviour because we all want the same thing: to avoid another preventable tragedy and ensure our loved ones make it home alive.”
As part of the Easter road safety campaign, Traffic and Highway Patrol officers have also shared their personal experiences attending crash scenes in an effort to highlight the real and lasting consequences of unsafe driving.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, said the Easter long weekend should be a time for connection — not tragedy.
“The police message this Easter long weekend is simple – slow down,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
“Last year there were 355 fatalities, which is almost one death every day. That was 28 more than 2024. This trend is deeply concerning and completely avoidable.
“Every fatality is a life cut short and a family who will never be the same.
“Telling a family member someone has died in a road fatality is one of the most difficult parts of the job.
“The officers not only deal with the emotions of a life lost; but the sights, smells and sounds provide a reminder of the crash well after they have left the scene.
“Police are imploring drivers to do their part to stop the number of lives lost from climbing any higher.”
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison echoed the call for caution, reminding drivers that responsibility on the road is shared by everyone.
“Whether you’re spending the Easter long weekend at home or heading off on a weekend away – my message remains the same. Buckle up, follow the road rules and keep to the speed limit,” Minister Atchinson said.
“The same goes for motorcyclists as well – wear your helmet, gear up properly and ride to the conditions.
“Road trauma has a lasting impact far beyond the crash. It affects those living with life-changing injuries, the families and friends who lose loved ones, and the first responders who attend these scenes.
“Road safety is built on responsibility – from all of us. Take your time, stay focused and make safe choices every time you get behind the wheel.”
Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling by downloading the Live Traffic NSW app, visiting livetraffic.com, calling 132 701, or using the TfNSW journey planning tool.
Anyone who witnesses dangerous driving behaviour is urged to report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
With increased traffic expected across the state, authorities say a moment’s patience behind the wheel could save a life.
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