Travellers on NSW roads this long weekend are warned to take extra caution, as double demerits are in effect until Sunday 28 January.

Double demerits began this morning at 12:01am and will last until the end of the long weekend, in addition to bigger fines for speeding, failing to wear a seatbelt, driving under the influence and using a smartphone while driving.

Shadow Minister for Police Paul Toole urged the need for safety at a time when NSW roads are at their busiest.

 “There is no excuse for speeding, drink driving or using a mobile whilst driving. The message is simple - just don’t do it,” Toole said.

“We experienced some harrowing tragedies over the Christmas New Year holidays, and we certainly do not want to see a repeat of that this long weekend.”

“Speeding, fatigue and drink and drug driving remain the biggest killers on NSW roads and the NSW Police Force will be out in numbers ensuring that if you do the wrong thing, you will be caught.”

There have already been 21 deaths on NSW roads this year, while there were 351 deaths in 2023.