Motorists are encouraged to take extra care on local roads across the region this Australia Day long weekend as double demerit penalties will be enforced. 

The double demerit point period for Australia Day begins at 12:01am on Friday 22 January and will continue until midnight on Tuesday 26 January.

“There will be an increased police presence on the Princes Highway and other local roads this long weekend and I am encouraging local and visiting motorists to take extra care on our roads,” says the Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward.

“Motorists are reminded to keep to the speed limit, drive to the local weather conditions and take plenty of rest breaks to avoid fatigue whilst driving.

“One death on our roads is one too many.”

Mr Ward also says there will be no excuse for speeding and motorists who ignore the road rules, especially during double demerit periods, risk losing their licence.