Australia’s toughened traffic crackdown over Australia Day 2026 led to no fatalities but many citations.

Australia Day 2026 long weekend saw New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, and Western Australia enforce a "double demerits" policy, doubling penalty points for traffic violations like speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt non-compliance. The temporary measure, aimed at reducing road accidents during peak travel times, included increased police patrols, mobile speed cameras, and public awareness campaigns. Authorities emphasized the initiative's goal of promoting safer driving, citing 355 road deaths in NSW in 2025 as a key concern. No fatalities were reported during the weekend, though several citations were issued. The policy was part of broader regional safety efforts, with enforcement focused on high-risk areas and holiday travel corridors.