As South Australians prepare to ring in 2026, South Australia Police are encouraging everyone to enjoy the celebrations, look out for one another, and make it a night to remember for all the right reasons.
From 3pm on Wednesday 31 December 2025 until 7am on Thursday 1 January 2026, police will be out in force across the state as part of a major New Year's Eve operation. Assistant Commissioner Stuart McLean said officers will be visible at key celebration hotspots including the Adelaide CBD, Glenelg, Semaphore, Victor Harbor, Wallaroo, and other regional centres.
"Our goal is simple, to help everyone have a safe and enjoyable night," Assistant Commissioner McLean said. "We'll have a full range of resources on the ground, from traffic patrols and mounted officers to public transport teams and specialist units, all working together to keep the atmosphere festive and secure."
South Australia Police are urging partygoers to plan ahead and make smart choices throughout the evening.
"Think about how you're getting to and from your celebration, stay aware of your surroundings, and pace yourself with alcohol," McLean said. "Dry zones will be in effect at many events, so please respect local rules and help keep the night family friendly."
The message is clear: celebrate with joy, not regret.
"Don't let poor decisions turn a great night into a bad memory," McLean added. "Violent or disruptive behaviour won't be tolerated, we want everyone to be able to enjoy the countdown safely."
Police are also reminding people to check in with their friends during the night, especially if someone has had too much to drink.
"Look after your mates. If someone's vulnerable, stay with them or help them get home safely. A little care can go a long way in preventing harm."
The state-wide road safety operation, Safe Holiday, will also be in full swing, with random alcohol and drug testing across South Australia.
"Let's welcome 2026 with celebration, connection, and care for one another," McLean said. "Have fun, be safe, and make it a night to remember – for all the right reasons."
To help plan your journey, free travel on all bus, train and tram services will be available from 5pm on New Year's Eve until 6am on 1 January 2026.
An additional Declared Public Precinct will be in effect for New Years Eve around the CBD from 10pm on Wednesday 31 December 2025 until 6am on Thursday 1 January 2026.
The Glenelg Declared Public Precinct will also additionally operate for a period of 12 hours from 6pm on 31 December 2025 to 6am 1 January 2026. Please visit SAPOL - Declared Public Precincts for more information.
Road closures include:
- Adelaide CBD - NYE road closures | City of Adelaide
- Semaphore - New Year's Eve | Port Adelaide Enfield
- Glenelg and Brighton - Road Closures | City of Holdfast Bay
- Victor Harbor - 2025-NYE-Info-sheet_road-closure-and-dry-area-V2.pdf
- Wallaroo - (11) 🚧Temporary Road Closure🚧 🎆New Year's Eve🎇... - Copper Coast Council | Facebook
