NSW Police Force have one clear message for drivers taking to the roads this Labour Day long weekend: Focus on what you are doing when you get behind the wheel. Momentary inattention whilst driving a vehicle can result in a crash.
Operation Labour Day 2026 commences at 12.01am on Friday 2 October 2026 and concludes at 11.59pm on Monday 5 October 2026.
Officers will target the major contributors to road trauma, including drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding, and seatbelt and helmet offences, with double demerits for certain offences in place for the duration of the operation.
Operation Labour Day will be led by officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, supported by general duties and specialist police from commands and districts across the state.
Already this year 261 lives have been lost on our roads. That’s compared to 250 at this time last year.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said small decisions can have devastating consequences on the road.
“Too many lives have been shattered by road trauma and police see the effects of this-first hand.”
“Every decision you make behind the wheel could mean the difference between life and death so slow down and obey the road rules.”
“Police will be out in force across the state this long weekend, targeting the major contributors to road trauma. If you break the law, you can expect to see red and blue flashing lights in your rear-view mirror.”
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver APM, said police will be focusing on those motorists who choose to ignore the road rules and continue to take risks.
“We know the behaviours that continue to contribute to the loss of life on our roads. Our officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols as well as random breath and drug testing right across the state. If you take risks, there is a very good chance you will be caught.” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
“If you are tired, stop and rest. If you have been drinking or taking drugs, do not get behind the wheel. If you are travelling on unfamiliar roads, or with additional weight in your vehicle, reducing your speed will provide you with more opportunity to react, should you need to.”
Additionally, with the NRL Grand Final set to take place at Accor Stadium on Sunday (4 October 2026), NSW Police will deploy officers to manage crowds, direct traffic, and monitor anti-social behaviour or alcohol-related incidents around venues and entertainment precincts.
“Police implore drivers to make safe decisions whether celebrating the winning team or commiserating,” Assistant Commissioner Driver.
“If you are planning to drink, have a plan on how to get home that doesn’t involve getting behind the wheel.
“No matter what you are doing or where you are going this long weekend, every driver has a responsibility, and we are urging people to make the right choice.”
“Plan your trip by downloading the Live Traffic NSW app, visiting livetraffic.com, calling 132 701, or using the TfNSW journey planning tool at myjourneynsw.info. Members of the public are urged to report dangerous driving behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
