General News
22 January, 2026
Australia Day 2026 Double Demerits
Double demerits begin tonight ahead of the Australia Day long weekend.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers, together with local police across NSW, will be targeting all road-related offences including speeding, wearing seatbelts, drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.
The NSW Police Force will begin their road safety operation from today with double demerits coming into effect from 12:01am Friday, January 23 2026 to 11:59pm Monday, January 26, 2026.
Last year’s road toll made for yet another devastating 12 months on our roads reaching 355 deaths, 28 more than the year before.
Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said although police will have a highly visible presence on the roads, the key to reducing accidents is taking responsibility – for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Mr Toole said.
“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast, or getting behind the wheel when tired or under the influence, there are road rules for a reason which, when followed, means everyone can arrive safely at their destination this long weekend.”
The NSW Opposition is encouraging all drivers to always have a Plan B in place before your first drink and never drink or drug drive.
If you are getting behind the wheel – even if it’s a short trip, never drive if you’re tired, buckle up, stay under the speed limit, and put the phone away.
To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, traffic conditions can be found at: https://www.livetraffic.com
