A highly-visible and mobile police operation will be in place on Sunday, January 26, with residents and visitors expected to join in Australia Day events across the state.

Wagga Detective Acting Inspector Phil Malligan said while it was a weekend of celebration, it was also important to be responsible.

"Police will be out in force and we are calling on people to act responsibly," he said.

"For those travelling between destinations, we will have officers working on Operation Safe Arrival to ensure the roads are safe, and for those celebrating and alcohol is involved, we ask people to drink responsibly and have a plan on how to get home."

Detective Acting Inspector Malligan said the long weekend after Christmas holidays was "a big weekend" for police traffic and highway command.

"They'll target speeding, drink driving, fatigue, mobile phones and other distractions so people need to be responsible," he said.

Riverina Police District Commander, Acting Superintendent John Aichinger, said there were many ways for the public to participate in Australia Day events over the long weekend.

"Police recognise this has been a difficult time for the community of New South Wales and we want everyone to have an enjoyable time this weekend celebrating everything that is great about being Australian," he said.

"Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect on the courage, selflessness and resilience of our country and our people - particularly our strong sense of community in times of crisis."

Those planning to attend an event are also being reminded to check the conditions of entry, especially relating to alcohol-free zones.