NSW Police Force today launched Operation Snow Safe 2026, with the support of Winter Olympic Gold Medallist Josie Baff, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW State Emergency Service reminding skiers and snowboarders to prioritise safety on and off the slopes.
Operation Snow Safe begins today (Friday 5 June 2026) and runs until Monday 5 October 2026. The annual operation will place a strong enforcement focus on road and alpine safety, licensing compliance and alcohol-related crime, as thousands of visitors prepare to travel to the snowfields.
The high visibility operation, led by the Monaro Police District, coincides with the official opening of ski season tomorrow (Saturday 6 June 2026).
The operation will see a surge in additional police officers from across New South Wales deployed to the Snowy Mountain region, stationed in surrounding police stations throughout the snow season. Monaro Police District General duties officers and Alpine Operations Unit will be assisted by specialist officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Police Rescue Squad, NSW Dog Unit, and Southern Region resources. These additional resources will be supported by other emergency services, Transport for NSW and National Parks & Wildlife Service to help keep people safe in the Snowy Mountains this year.
Police will again focus on compliance checks on licensed premises, including hotels, bars, and nightlife venues in alpine area and target anti-social behaviour and any risky behaviour on and off the slopes.
Operation Snow Safe coincides with the King’s Birthday road safety and enforcement operation, with double demerits in force from 12.01am Friday 5 June 2026, until 11.59pm on Monday 8 June 2026. Police will target speeding, seatbelts, alcohol and or drug-related, dangerous, and distracted driving on roads leading to the snow.
Operation Snow Safe 2025 resulted in;
- More than 25 multi-agency search and rescues led by Monaro Police District with assistance from Police Rescue Squad, the State Emergency Service, Fire & Rescue NSW and the NSW Ambulance.
- 1,400 licensed premises inspections conducted on and off the snow fields
- More than 31,000 RBT conducted
- 153 charges laid
- 3,131 infringements issued including for speeding offences.
- 227 positive RDT detected
- 109 PCAs
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said NSW Police will be out in force across the Snowy Mountains this season to keep people safe.
“Operation Snow Safe is about targeting dangerous behaviour on the roads, in venues and across the alpine region.
“If you speed, drive impaired by drugs or alcohol or put others at risk, you should expect to be caught.
“Our police do an outstanding job in difficult conditions, but everyone has a responsibility to plan ahead and make safe choices.”
Southern Region Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar APM said the operation is designed to address increased risks associated with the busy snow season.
“This operation is not just about visibility, it’s about enforcement. If you’re driving unlicensed, speeding, or engaging in dangerous behaviour, you will be detected and you will be dealt with.”
“We know many people are travelling long distances to reach the snowfields, so it’s vital to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and avoid driving while tired, especially after a long day on the slopes. Your destination will always be there. Drivers are reminded not to take unnecessary risks, don’t speed and don’t drive distracted. Every police vehicle is an RBT, so don’t take the risk, make the right choice before you drive,” Assistant Commissioner Cassar said.
“We will also be working closely with licensed venues to ensure they are meeting their obligations and providing a safe environment for patrons.”
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Area Manager Southern Ranges Branch Tim Greville said visitors to alpine and backcountry areas should plan ahead, stay informed and take extra care as weather can change suddenly.
“Alpine and backcountry areas offer a unique and rewarding experience, but they also require careful planning and preparation. Conditions can change quickly and without warning, so it is important visitors check weather forecasts, park alerts and current conditions before heading into these areas.”
“Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) are strongly recommended for anyone visiting alpine and backcountry areas and can be hired free of charge from 12 National Parks and Wildlife Service visitor centres across NSW. Visitors should also complete a Trip Intention Form before departure, which provides important information to emergency services if a search or rescue operation is required.”
Winter Olympic Gold Medallist Josie Baff is encouraging visitors to prioritise safety on and off the slopes.
“As an athlete, I spend a lot of time on the snow and conditions can change quickly. Being prepared, wearing the right gear and knowing your limits are key to making sure everyone gets home safely, ” Josie said.
“The snow is for everyone to enjoy, but safety has to come first. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, taking responsibility for your own safety helps protect the whole community.”
Further information on driving in snowfield conditions can be found by visiting the Centre for Road Safety website: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/index.html
Hikers can contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for more information or visit: https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or www.environment.nsw.gov.au.
For general snow safety tips when visiting alpine regions, as well as useful links you can access: https://snowsafe.org.au/
