Double demerits to kick in at midnight for Queen’s Birthday – here’s everything you need to know

Police will be out in force targeting speeding and distracted drivers as holidaymakers hit the roads this long weekend. 

Double demerits will be in place from Friday through to Monday across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. 

Officers will be targeting motorists for speeding, seatbelt offences and using their mobile phones.

Police have urged road users in NSW and the ACT to drive safely as double demerits kicks in over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend

There’s expected to be lots of movement on the major highways as Sydneysiders and Canberrans go away for the weekend.

Transport for NSW Executive Director Customer Coordination Roger Weeks said: ‘Heavy traffic is predicted from around 2pm on Friday along the Hume Highway, Federal Highway, Monaro Highway, Snowy Mountains Highway, Kosciuszko Road and Alpine Way’.

‘All key routes in and out of Sydney are likely to see congestion and delays over the June long weekend, including the M1 Pacific Motorway, Great Western Highway and Princes Highway.’

Mr Weeks also warned drivers heading to snowy areas to be aware of the conditions.

‘More snow means more risk on the roads. We want everyone to get to their destination safely so if you’re travelling this long weekend make sure you drive to the conditions, ensure you’re well rested before you head out, and never drive if you’re affected by drugs or alcohol,’ he said.

‘Sub-zero conditions create additional road hazards and motorists should reduce speed, limit braking, use daytime driving lights and keep an increased distance between cars in front.’

Those caught speeding, using their phone illegally, not wearing a seat belt or riding a motorcycle without a helmet are being targeted and will receive heavier penalties 

 Double demerits will be in effect from Friday, June 10 until Tuesday, June 13

NSW and the ACT are the only state and territory to have double demerits during the June long weekend.

Western Australia has their Queen’s Birthday long weekend in September which also has double demerits running.

Queensland’s double demerits scheme is set up to target drivers who repeatedly commit offences on the road and is applied all year round.

Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory do not have double demerits.