A police operation for Australia Day 2023 has concluded with police commending the behaviour of crowds at Australia Day events across Sydney and the state.
Operation Australia Day 2023 was launched yesterday (Thursday 26 January 2023), involving general duties officers, assisted by specialist police, to ensure a safe environment for everyone marking the day.
Around 1800 police were deployed across the state, including officers attached to the Police Transport Command, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit and PolAir.
During the high-visibility policing operation, 60 people were arrested, and 84 people were charged for a range of offences including drink driving, possession of drugs and domestic violence offences.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Stephen Hegarty, said majority of people behaved safely and responsibly, with only three people asked to move on at today's rally in Sydney.
"About 5000 people turned out to peacefully protest, and we are happy to report there were no arrests made and no fines issued – a credit to the attendees and organisers.
"Overall, we couldn't have asked for a better outcome for the operation; but while Australia Day is over, motorists are reminded double demerits will continue into the weekend," Assistant Commissioner Hegarty said.
