Double demerits at stake over Australia Day period

Operation Australia Day 2021 will launch from midnight tonight, January 21, and run through to 11.59pm on January 26.

Officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will be working with local Police Area Commands to monitor speeding, mobile phone, motorcycle helmet and seatbelt offences.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Acting Assistant Commissioner Stephen Hegarty said police were calling for motorists to take care and look after each other as well as pedestrians.

"We've experienced a number of tragic fatalities already this year, this is a concern for police and the community, particularly for those who have lost a loved one," he said.

"Australia Day is about mateship, comradery, and looking out for each other. We want to see that on our roads.

"It's been a tough 12 months for everyone and sometimes drivers can forget that in each and every vehicle is a loved one: a mate, a mother, a father, child or a sibling."

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said this Australia Day may not be like past celebrations, but the spirit of mateship should still shine through.

"Over the Australia Day weekend I urge people to celebrate safely - abide by the public health orders and the road rules," he said.

"If you plan on having a drink, do so responsibly."