The Minns Government has issued a renewed warning to motorists as traffic builds across New South Wales ahead of the Christmas and New Year break, with double demerits coming into force from midnight tonight.
The higher penalties will apply statewide until Sunday, 4 January 2026, covering offences linked to the highest crash risks, including speeding, mobile phone use, failing to wear seatbelts and motorcycle helmet breaches. A second double demerits period will follow over the Australia Day long weekend, running from Friday, 23 January to Monday, 26 January 2026.
The message comes against a troubling backdrop. So far this year, 347 people have died on NSW roads, 25 more than at the same point last year. Authorities say the increase underlines the need for caution during the busiest travel period of the year, when long distances, fatigue and heavier traffic combine.
Police are urging drivers to stick to speed limits, drive to conditions, put phones away, ensure seatbelts and restraints are worn correctly, avoid alcohol and drugs, and take regular breaks on long trips. The focus, they say, is on preventing avoidable crashes rather than issuing fines for their own sake.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said officers would have a strong presence on roads across the state throughout the holiday period. She said double demerits were designed to reinforce road rules when traffic volumes are at their highest and stressed that personal responsibility remains central to road safety. Police, she added, would use all available powers to deal with reckless behaviour.
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison echoed the call, describing the Christmas and New Year break as one of the most demanding periods for the road network. She said the government was using a range of measures to improve safety but that outcomes ultimately depended on driver behaviour. Each road death, she said, represents a person with family and friends whose loss carries lifelong consequences.
Road safety advocates have long argued that penalty periods like double demerits can help curb risky behaviour in peak travel times, though they also point to the need for broader, long term measures such as safer road design and continued public education. With holiday travel now underway, authorities are banking on a simpler message cutting through.
For drivers heading away, the advice remains straightforward. Slow down, stay alert and make choices that get everyone to their destination safely.
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