Double demerits are in full force, as the Easter long weekend kicks off. 

The Easter Operation was launched at 12:01 am on Thursday 28 March, where a highly visible police traffic operation will take place on NSW roads, with a focus on reducing road fatalities and road trauma. 

Throughout the weekend, double-demerit points are in force for spending, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences. 

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, said police will be saturating roads across the state for the five-day operation to ensure the safety of all road users. 

“Those selfish individuals who think they can blatantly disregard the road rules and put the broader community at risk are on notice.”

“Make no mistake that our police will be out and about this long weekend – including on major road networks and on local streets – to stop those doing the wrong thing,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said. 

Officers will also be targeting other high-risk driver behaviour, including drink, drug, dangerous and distracted driving. 

While large police operations are standard for long weekends and public holidays, this year follows a particularly tragic year in 2023, where seven people lost their lives during the Easter long weekend. 

A total of 14,564 traffic infringement notices were issued for speeding, a further 326 people were charged for drink-driving offences, while 311 people were issued infringements for mobile phone usage.

“We want all of you to arrive safely at your destination and enjoy the Easter long weekend with loved ones, so we are asking every person who gets behind the wheel of a motor vehicle or hops on a motorcycle, to be responsible and do everything they can to keep themselves, their passengers and other road users safe.” 

The operation and double-demerits will continue until 11:59pm on Monday 1 April.