Double demerit points have been brought into action to deter dangerous driving as the state celebrates the long weekend.

Double demerit points have come into effect from midnight (12.01am) Friday 4 October until the end of Monday 7 October (11.59pm) in New South Wales. 

Police have launched Operation Labour Day 2024 to combat dangerous driving by an increased police presence on NSW roads over the long weekend. 

Two years ago, eight people lost their lives in separate crashes on New South Wales roads over the Labour Day long weekend. 

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner David Driver has asked drivers to not get complacent with road safety. 

“I’m urging all road users to be responsible on the road and encourage passengers to call out driving behaviour that they are uncomfortable with, or if it is unlawful – it could save someone’s life, including your own.”

Mobile phone detection cameras operate across the state and any reckless drivers caught using their phones during the double demerit period will be slapped with a $410 fine, or $544 in a school zone, and 10 demerits.

To date 254 people have died in crashes on NSW roads – 184 of those in regional areas.

State MP Gareth Ward says research shows a reduction of casualty crashes by 30 per cent when double demerits are in place, and urges his constituents to plan your trip and be responsible.

“So whether you are going for the Penrith Panthers or the Melbourne Storm in this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final decider, make sure you have a ‘Plan B’ and don’t drink and drive.”