The NSW Police Force is encouraging the community to look out for their mates and loved ones on Australia Day ahead of a state-wide police operation.
Operation Australia Day 2022 will commence tomorrow (Wednesday 26 January 2022), to keep people safe across the state as they come together with family and friends.
More than 2000 general duties and specialist police will be patrolling events and popular areas across the state, including Sydney's harbour, foreshore and CBD.
Deputy Premier and Police Minister Paul Toole is encouraging the community to look out for each other to ensure the day is enjoyable and safe.
"Australia Day is a time to reflect on what it means to be Australian. Mateship, camaraderie, respect and diversity are all part of our story," Deputy Premier Toole said.
"Everyone has a role to play in looking out for their mates and loved ones. Be COVID-safe, drink responsibly, don't drink and drive and take care on and around waterways."
Commander of Operation Australia Day 2022, Assistant Commissioner Peter Cotter, said police will be focused on providing a safe environment for the community.
"Police are there to keep you safe, not ruin your day or spoil your fun. We want everyone to feel safe and respected as we come together to reflect on our history and celebrate contemporary Australia," Assistant Commissioner Cotter said.
"We ask that you follow the directions of police and know your limits when consuming alcohol. Look after your mates, have a plan to get home safely, and know that police and emergency services are on hand if you need help.
"Anyone found disrespecting each other with anti-social, dangerous or reckless behaviour, will be detected and dealt with swiftly," he said.
Police are working closely with the Australia Day Council, NSW Government agencies, landowners, and other stakeholders to make sure the day is enjoyable for everyone across NSW.
Officers from the Marine Area Command will work with Maritime NSW to patrol Sydney Harbour as well as coastal and inland waterways, where significant maritime traffic is expected.
The Marine Area Command is reminding skippers to check their vessel is in good working order and ensure the required safety equipment is on board, including lifejackets.
Marine Area Commander, Superintendent Murray Reynolds, said life jackets should be used by anyone heading out on a boat, jet ski, or kayak; as well as rock fishers.
"Time after time, we see how lifejackets save lives – and Australia Day is no different. Wearing a life jacket will ensure the day is remembered for the right reasons," Superintendent Murray Reynolds said.
"On Australia Day, Marine Area Command officers will also be focused on drink driving and will be random breath testing skippers on the water. The legal alcohol limit is 0.05 and anyone detected operating a boat while under the influence will face fines and charges," Mr Reynolds said.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, with local police, will continue to patrol roads across the state on the day, targeting drink, drug, distracted and dangerous driving, fatigue, speeding and other offences.
The Police Transport Command will be facilitating the safe and effective movement of the community on the public transport network.
There will be major road closures in place and delays are expected. Extra public transport services will run, and people are encouraged to plan their journey ahead at transportnsw.info; and check traffic updates at the Live Traffic NSW website: www.livetraffic.com.au.
Police are also reminding the community to be aware of and adhere to the latest Public Health Orders, including rules around mask wearing, by checking the NSW Health website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/stay-safe/rules/people-in-nsw
