An extra public holiday in the calendar means extra enforcement have been out and about, with double demerits period coming into effect on Wednesday before the National Day of Mourning for Her Majesty the Queen yesterday. 

As school holidays approaches this weekend, authorities are expecting a busy time for roads as people take the opportunity to get away for the long weekend. 

Double demerits will continue until 11:59pm on Sunday 25 September, and will be in place for all speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences. 

Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary for Safety, Environment and Regulation Tara McCarthy reminded drivers not to be complacent throughout the period. 

“Although this is a sombre occasion, there is still likely to be more people out on the roads over the next few days and over the weekend with the school term ending on Friday, so it is important we all take extra care,” Ms McCarthy said. 

“The last thing we want to see over this period is an increase in road trauma, which is why double-demerits will be in place like they would for any other public holiday to deter people from doing the wrong thing and putting lives at risk. 

“Drivers are reminded that this period includes some school days and it is especially important to slow down and take care in school zones at school times – even if you cannot see children near the road.” 

Despite yesterday's holiday, school is still continuing today and school zones will be in place. Drivers are reminded additional penalties can apply for certain offences committed in school zones. 

The National Day of Mourning was established as a National Public Holiday following the death of Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II this month. 

The day will saw a National Memorial Service held at Canberra’s Parliament House at 11am, when one minute’s silence was observed. 

Speculation has risen as to the future of the current public holiday celebrating the Queen’s Birthday. 

While Victoria has announced that the June long weekend - the same date as NSW - will be renamed to the King’s Birthday going forward, other states are yet to announce any changes for the historical date, which varies between states.