A statewide police operation has been launched ahead of the Anzac Day long weekend, with motorists warned to expect a heavy enforcement presence and double demerits in force across New South Wales.
NSW Police Force will run Operation Anzac Day 2026 from 12.01am Friday 24 April through to 11.59pm Monday 27 April, targeting dangerous driving as traffic volumes increase.
Double demerits will apply for the entire period, covering offences such as speeding, illegal mobile phone use, and seatbelt and helmet breaches. Police will also carry out random breath testing and mobile drug testing across the state, including on major regional routes.
The operation comes as the road toll continues to climb, with 108 lives lost on NSW roads so far this year, several more than the same time last year.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said drivers should expect a strong and visible police presence.
“Let there be no doubt: NSW Police officers will be out in force this long weekend and they will be targeting the behaviours we know put lives at risk on our roads,” she said.
“This is a high-visibility operation, and drivers can expect to see police on highways, in regional areas and across our metropolitan road network.”
She warned that risky behaviour behind the wheel would not be tolerated.
“There is no excuse for speeding, using your mobile phone, or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt. These are not just offences, they are choices, and they could cost you your life,” she said.
“If you make the wrong decision behind the wheel, you will be caught and you will face the consequences.”
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Trent King said the focus of the operation was on preventing tragedies.
“We are seeing far too many lives lost on our roads, and every one of those deaths is a tragedy that didn’t need to happen. Our message this long weekend is simple: slow down and pay attention when driving,” he said.
“This operation isn’t about issuing tickets. It’s about stopping dangerous behaviour before it ends in a fatal crash.”
Acting Assistant Commissioner King said drivers should expect to be stopped and tested if they were doing the wrong thing.
“If we can prevent even one family from receiving a knock on the door, it’s worth every resource we put into it,” he said.
“Drivers should expect to see police out on roads. If you do the wrong thing, you will be stopped, you will be tested, and you will be held accountable.”
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the rising road toll highlighted the importance of safer driving.
“These aren’t just statistics. They are people, and every single death represents a family, a community and a life cut short,” she said.
“We know the biggest risks are speeding, fatigue, distraction and driving under the influence, and these behaviours continue to have devastating consequences.”
She said the long weekend would bring increased pressure on the road network.
“This long weekend, there will be more people on the road, more families travelling and more pressure on the network, which is why it’s so important that every driver takes responsibility,” she said.
“Slow down, put your phone away, wear your seatbelt properly and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
Police are urging motorists to plan ahead, check conditions and allow extra travel time, particularly on busy regional routes.
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