Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime.
16 December 2025
In brief:
- There will be more drivers on the road during the summer.
- Road safety is a priority for the whole community.
- This story outlines how to be safe on the road.
As the festive season kicks off and you are planning holidays, road trips and celebrations it’s crucial to remember that road safety should always be a top priority.
Whether you’re travelling interstate or staying in Canberra keeping safety in mind can ensure a smooth enjoyable journey for everyone on the road.
Plan your trip and take breaks
It’s important to plan your trip and take regular breaks. Plan to stop, rest, and stretch your legs to stay alert.
We know there will be more motorists on the road in summer, particularly on the Kings Highway. This is because Canberrans commute to holiday destinations on the south coast. No one wants to cause a serious crash or fatality that keeps families apart for the holidays so please:
- put the phone away
- slow down and drive to the conditions
- be patient during expected periods of congestion
- leave a safe distance with the vehicle in front
- avoid unsafe and unnecessary overtaking
- rest when tired.
Keep distractions at bay
Research shows that driver distraction increases the risk of an accident.
Taking your eyes off the road for more than two seconds doubles the risk of a crash, with mobile phones often being the source of that distraction.
Leave your phone alone while driving. Mobile device detection cameras are in operation in the ACT and fines apply.
Happy campers prepare before towing
If you’re towing a caravan or campervan remember to conduct a thorough inspection.
Make sure your tow hitch, safety chains and lights are correctly attached and in working order.
Also check your tyres, towing capacity and caravan weight. Remember to re-check everything during long trips. A little prep now can make all the difference for a smooth and safe trip.
Secure your load properly
Travelling with a trailer? Use suitable straps, chains or nets to keep your load from moving. It must stay in place when travelling in higher speed limited zones, such as the highway, as well as during braking, turning and sudden stops.
Do not drink or take drugs then drive
With more people celebrating during the summer months, road safety is critical. Remember, driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is dangerous and illegal.
Instead of driving, you can plan to catch public transport, have a designated driver who is not drinking or taking drugs, or stay overnight and make sure you are not still over the limit in the morning.
ACT Policing have the power to immediately remove people who choose to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol from our roads by imposing immediate licence suspensions.
Every ACT Policing vehicle can enforce the road rules anywhere, anytime.
Double demerits
Double demerits are in force from Wednesday, 24 December 2025 to Sunday, 4 January 2026. This includes offences detected by road safety cameras.
This holiday period let’s all do our part to make the roads safer for everyone. By driving responsibly, being considerate of others, and taking breaks when needed, we can all enjoy our trips away and return home safely.
Find out more about road safety on the ACT City Services website.
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