NSW police are reminding Queanbeyan motorists to take care on the roads as it launches a state-wide traffic operation in the lead up to Australia Day.

Operation Australia Day 2022 kicked off today and ends at 11.59pm on February 1.

The high-visibility traffic operation, which runs until the end of the school holidays, is targeting drinking and drug driving, speeding and fatigue

Double demerits won’t apply during the operation, police say, but additional police will be deployed across the Monaro region, to keep the community safe over the busy period.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police, Paul Toole, said the absence of double demerits isn’t an excuse for drivers to flout the rules.

“Police will take a zero-tolerance approach to road users endangering the lives of others through careless behaviour such as drink driving and speeding,” said Mr Toole.

“We want everyone to arrive at their destination safely and enjoy Australia Day and the remainder of the holidays before school returns.

“In the spirt of Australia Day, let’s show comaraderie and look out for each other on our roads by slowing down, driving to the conditions, being patient, and not driving under the influence.”

Commander of Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Assistant Commissioner Stephen Hegarty said the Australia Day operation has been extended this year to cover the days leading up to school returning.

“We are expecting roads across the state to be busy as people celebrate Australia Day and families return from travel destinations ahead of the start of school early next month,” Assistant Commissioner Hegarty said.

“Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will be targeting everything from drinking and drug driving to speeding and fatigue, in a bid to keep you and your loved ones safe.”

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