A Safe Long Weekend Starts With Us

Everyone can play a role in building a safer New South Wales, and that starts with looking out for your mates, and respecting other members of the community.

For those planning to drink this weekend, remember to do it responsibly, and absolutely never get behind the wheel of a car.

New South Wales Police Officers will be targeting drink and drug driving, fatigue, mobile phone use, speeding and seatbelt and helmet offences, with double demerits in place from 12:01am Friday 3 October 2025 and concluding at 11:59pm on Monday 6 October 2025.

Sadly, while many celebrate this weekend there will be others who do not feel safe in their own homes, with a concerning trend over recent years of increased rates of domestic, family and sexual violence at times of large events across the state.

If you witness unacceptable behaviour, call it out.

If you are concerned about the safety of someone you know, or your own, please contact:

• The NSW Domestic Violence Line on: 1800 656 463
• Or, 1800 RESPECT on: 1800 737 732
• If it is an emergency, please contact Triple Zero: 000

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said:

"The first long weekend of the warmer months is one of the most exciting times of the year. We know people will be celebrating with family, friends and enjoying the sport that brings us together but we're urging everyone to be responsible especially when alcohol is involved.

"Drinking can be part of a great night but only if you're in control. Decide how your night ends before it begins by setting a limit, locking in how you're getting home and telling your mates to keep you accountable.

"Police will be out in force, working hard to keep our roads and communities safe. Stay alert, follow the rules and help us make it a weekend to remember for all the right reasons."

Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper said:

"This weekend is one of the undisputed highlights on our states sporting calendar - even if St George aren't playing.

"It's a time for people right across New South Wales to come together, to relax, and to enjoy the footy.

"But it's also a time to look after each other, whether that's making sure your mates get home safe, or checking in on someone who might be doing it tough."

Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said:

"As a Government, we genuinely understand our responsibility to take meaningful, ongoing action to build a safer New South Wales, but we know we cannot do it without the community's help.

"This long weekend, check on your friends, do not ignore signs of concerning behaviour and help us in our work towards creating a safer New South Wales.

"The stakes are far too high for anyone to not play their part.

"For those experiencing domestic and family violence, you have a right to safety and help is available."

In an emergency, where there is an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services on Triple Zero (000)

NSW Domestic Violence Help Line: 1800 65 64 63

1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732

Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 18 00

Further information on if you suspect and want to help someone in a domestic violence situation is available here.

Information on how to spot the signs of coercive control is available here.