The NSW Police Force will launch a high-visibility policing operation ahead of Anzac Day, one of the nation's most important occasions.
Operation Commander Assistant Commissioner Tony Cooke launched Operation Anzac Day 2022 at 1pm today (Thursday 21 April 2022).
The police operation will involve general duties officers, assisted by specialist police, including the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command, to ensure the safety of the community.
Police will be out in force at Sydney CBD events on Monday (25 April 2022), including the Dawn Service, Anzac Day March, Commemoration Service, and Sunset Service.
In addition, officers from Police Area Commands and Police Districts across the state will patrol local and regional events to ensure this national day of remembrance is commemorated appropriately.
Assistant Commissioner Tony Cooke said police are reminding the public to be respectful, sensible, and to take responsibility for themselves and others during tomorrow's celebrations.
"Anzac Day is about honouring the brave men and women who served our country and who paid the ultimate sacrifice in fighting for our freedom," Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
"Like all major events, we want people to enjoy Anzac Day in a safe and secure environment, without the fear of being subjected to anti-social behaviour or alcohol-related crime.
"Police are encouraging anyone planning to attend one of the many events across the state, to do so safely and in the spirit of comradery and mateship, to look out for one another," Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
As large crowds are expected in the CBD, police are encouraging people to leave the car at home and use public transport.
Many roads will be closed, and special-event clearways will be in place throughout the Sydney CBD.
"Anyone driving in the CBD should expect significant delays and take care, as there will be heavy pedestrian traffic.
"Public transport is there for everyone to use for what is set to be an enjoyable Anzac Day. Do not ruin what should be a good day, with foolish behaviour.
"Consuming alcohol on public transport is not permitted and the Police Transport Command will be targeting anyone drinking alcohol on trains, buses and ferries," Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
Deputy Premier and Police Minister Paul Toole said that police would be highly visible across the state to ensure commemoration activities were safe for all to attend.
"Our police will be working 24 hours a day across the weekend to keep you safe," Mr Toole said.
"Anzac Day is an opportunity to stop and acknowledge the service of our veterans as a community. No matter how you intend to spend your weekend – travelling around the state or attending a dawn service in your local community, make sure you plan ahead, drink responsibly and be respectful of those around you."
Minister for Veteran Affairs David Elliott said Anzac Day was an opportunity for NSW to come together to pay tribute to the first Anzacs and show support for our defence force personnel, past and present, who followed in their footsteps.
"Anzac Day will be very moving for many veterans this year as they reconnect and reunite for the first time since the pandemic. This year marks the first year they will be able to gather and enjoy traditional annual reunions and commemorative events without restrictions.
"I encourage veterans their friends and families to stay safe this weekend, leave the car at home and take advantage of the NSW Government's 12 days of fare free travel," Mr Elliott said.
For special-event traffic and transport information, head to www.transportnsw.info.
