POLICE are encouraging communities across New South Wales to come together in a safe and respectful way during Australia Day celebrations.

There will be a high-visibility policing presence as part of Operation Australia Day 2026, which commenced Friday and will conclude Monday.

The statewide land, water and air operation includes general duties officers, supported by specialist units including the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Police Transport Command, Operations Support Group, Public Order and Riot Squad, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, Marine Area Command and PolAir.

The public is urged to take part in Australia Day activities responsibly and look out for one another.

The carrying of long-arm weapons by specialist police during Australia Day events in Sydney has been authorised following the Bondi Beach terror attack in December, 2025, to provide a sense of security to the community, not because of an increased threat risk.

Acting Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Paul Scully, said Australia Day was a time for people to come together, and the message was simple. Celebrate safely, respectfully and look out for one another.

“NSW Police will have a strong, highly visible presence across the state as part of Operation Australia Day to help keep communities safe,” Mr Scully said.

“Following the Bondi Beach terror attack, specialist police will be authorised to carry long-arm weapons at certain events in Sydney. This is about reassurance and protection, not because of any specific threat.

“These are operational decisions made by police based on intelligence and risk assessments, and the NSW Government fully supports them.

“We’re asking everyone to respect police directions, follow the law and play their part so Australia Day is safe and enjoyable for all.”

Operation Australia Day Commander, Assistant Commissioner, Brett McFadden, encourages communities to be respectful.

“Police will have a visible presence across the state, and we ask the public to look out for one another, make responsible choices and treat others with courtesy,” he said.

“Those who plan to join in on Australia Day events are asked to be responsible and respectful because anti-social or criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Whether you are attending an event, spending time outdoors, on the water or travelling on our roads, we want everyone to get home safely.

“Look after your mates, know your alcohol limit and follow the law.”

Marine Area Commander, Superintendent, Joseph McNulty, said Australia Day was typically a popular time for people to head out on the water across the state.

“We will have a strong police presence on our waterways, and we urge skippers to ensure their vessel is in good working order and they have all required safety equipment on board,” he said.

“Lifejackets should be worn by anyone on a boat, jet ski or kayak, or those fishing and always while rock fishing.

“Skippers, passengers and swimmers are also reminded that alcohol and the water do not mix and Water Police will be conducting random breath tests.”

NSW Maritime executive director, Mark Hutchings, said our world-class waterways would be packed right across the state on Australia Day, so NSW Maritime was reminding people to take extra caution, make a plan before heading out and wear a lifejacket.

“As always, make sure you follow New South Wales boating rules and local waterway restrictions, such as speed limits and adherence to exclusion zones,” he said.

“Maritime authorities will be out in force to ensure recreational and commercial vessels are compliant with maritime laws.”

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers will be out in force during the operation targeting dangerous and risky driving behaviour.

A double demerit period is in place from Friday, January 23 to Monday, January 26 for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.

Transport for NSW acting secretary, Howard Collins, said there would be major road closures in place on Australia Day and delays were expected.

“Extra public transport services will run, and people are encouraged to plan their journey,” he said.

“Public transport is the easiest way to travel to Australia Day events, as many roads around Circular Quay and The Rocks will be closed. With major transport hubs located within short walking distance, avoid the parking hassle and plan your trip by transport to make sure you get the most out of your day.”

There will be major road closures in place on Australia Day and delays are expected. Extra public transport services will run, and people are encouraged to plan their journey.

NSW Ambulance Acting Assistant Commissioner, Simmone Locke, said large parts of New South Wales will be impacted by heatwave conditions over the weekend and it is important people understand heat can be dangerous.

“The real danger isn’t just one hot day, it’s the relentless heat over consecutive days, which means your body needs time to recover, so make cooling down and hydration a priority,” he said.

For details about what’s happening in your area and further event-related information, visit the official Australia Day website.