The NSW Police Force is reminding members of the community planning to commemorate this year's ANZAC Day to do so in a COVID-safe way.
Police have been working with NSW Health, Returned Services League (RSL) NSW and local councils across the state to facilitate Anzac Day events in line with current Public Health Orders, including marches and dawn services.
An exemption to the Public Health Order was issued to allow 10,000 people to participate in the Sydney CBD march with spectators encouraged to watch from home or maintain social distancing if attending. Those unable to physically distance will be encouraged to wear a mask.
Within Greater Sydney, and outside of Greater Sydney, a maximum of 5,000 people can attend an Anzac Day March or service and must not exceed one person per two square metres of space.
While events will be on a smaller scale due to COVID-19 restrictions, a highly visible and mobile police operation will be in place to ensure COVID-safe Anzac Day commemorations across the state.
Police will be out in force at Sydney CBD events on Anzac Day (Sunday 25 April 2021), including the Dawn Service and Anzac Day March.
The police operation will involve general duties officers, assisted by specialist police, including the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command, to ensure the safety of the community.
Operation Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Rohan Cramsie, is reminding the community to be extra respectful this Anzac Day and adhere to restrictions.
"While it is great that we can commemorate Anzac Day once more, the day will look a little different this year. Be aware that some events may have seating or spacing requirements or are open to ticket-holders only, like the CBD Dawn Service," said Acting Assistant Commissioner Cramsie.
"Consider attending a local service, staying at home to 'light up the dawn' like we did last year, or watch the broadcast of the dawn service and the march on TV. If you do choose to travel to the Sydney CBD, follow all COVID-safety measures and instructions from event organisers."
Crowds are expected to gather at various commemoration services and events to remember those who lost their lives in service to their country, with traffic diversions and road closures in place.
"This year, Sydney's CBD Anzac Day March will take place down Elizabeth Street starting at Martin Place and ending near Museum Station, with the Act of Remembrance observed," Acting Assistant Commissioner Cramsie added.
"A number of road closures, clearways and traffic diversions will be in place within the CBD so if you have to drive, please allow plenty of time and always check road signs."
Police across the state will also be targeting anti-social behaviour and will not tolerate dangerous, criminal, offensive or violent acts.
"Police are not here to ruin anyone's day; however, our first priority is always the safety of the wider community. Anyone found to be ruining the day for others will be detected and dealt with swiftly," said Acting Assistant Commissioner Cramsie.
"Remember the reasons for commemorating this day and honour the true Anzac spirit – look out for your mates and celebrate in a safe and respectful way."
For information on current Public Health Orders, please refer to www.nsw.gov.au. This includes full details including maximum number of guests permitted within your region. Continue to monitor this site as restrictions and guidance may change.
For information about Anzac Day events in your local area, visit https://www.rslnsw.org.au/commemoration/anzac-day-2021/local-dawn-service-march-and-commemoration-services/
For detailed closure, clearway and access information, visit www.livetraffic.com. To plan your trip by public transport, visit www.transportnsw.info.
