NSW Police are urging everyone planning to celebrate this great nation on Australia Day to start planning ahead.
Thousands of visitors and residents are expected to join in the national holiday celebrations this Australia Day (Saturday 26 January 2019), on Sydney's CBD and foreshore areas across NSW.
Operation Australia Day 2019, a high-visibility policing operation, will see general duties officers from across the Central Metropolitan Region, assisted by specialist police, to ensure a safe and secure environment for attendees.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb APM, said police will have a significant presence across the city to ensure the day's events are safe and family-friendly.
"We want everyone to have an enjoyable time celebrating everything that is great about being Australian, as well as encouraging visitors to join in at local events," Assistant Commissioner Webb said.
"Police are not here to ruin anyone's fun; however, anti-social or dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated.
"Officers will focus on alcohol-related crimes and anyone acting inappropriately will be dealt with swiftly and face the full force of the law.
"If you're planning on having a drink, remember the coveted national culture of 'mateship' – look after your mates and drink in moderation," Assistant Commissioner Webb said.
The police operation will extend onto the state's waterways, with the Marine Area Command providing a highly-visible and mobile presence.
Marine Area Commander, Superintendent Mark Hutchings said Australia Day is one of the busiest annual events on Sydney Harbour and across local inland waterways.
"With significant maritime traffic expected on the harbour and on waterways across the state, skippers are reminded that police will be conducting drug and alcohol testing on the water as well as compliance checks," Supt Hutchings said.
"Before heading out on the water, check the vessel is in good working order, ensure all the required safety equipment is on board – most importantly, lifejackets.
"And remember, the alcohol limit is 0.05 – just like on land – and with officers conducting random breath tests on the water, it's safer not to drink at all.
"Drinking alcohol or taking drugs while out on the water can end in tragedy, so look after your friends and family and act responsibly," said Supt Hutchings.
For anyone heading out onto the water, exclusion zones and movement times apply. Please visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/ for further details.
If you are planning to attend an event, remember to check the conditions of entry, especially relating to alcohol-free zones.
For details about what's happening in your area and further event-related information, visit the official Australia Day website: http://www.australiaday.com.au/
Members of the public should also remember that bottles are prohibited in some of the event areas so ensure you check conditions of entry.
"Public transport is recommended as road closures will be in place, particularly in the Sydney CBD and around the foreshore areas. For those that insist on driving, please be patient and drive to the conditions," Assistant Commissioner Webb said.
"Motorists are also reminded that there will be a number of special event clearways in place so ensure you check signage before parking your car, as it may be towed and fines apply.
"We say it time and time again, don't drink or take drugs and drive. Officers from the Traffic & Highway Patrol Command will be on our roads and you will be caught and put before the courts," Assistant Commissioner Webb said.
A comprehensive Australia Day transport guide – with information for travel to and from events from 7am – is available by visiting www.transportnsw.info.
