Communities are expected to gather together to celebrate our national day at events in their towns, as more gather with their mates at Australia Day parties across the country.

Thousands of additional police will deployed across the state as part of Operation Westchester.

Operation Westchester is a highly visible policing strategy conducted by general duties police, with assistance from specialist commands including Police Transport Command, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order & Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Licensing Police, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, PolAir and Marine Area Command.

Acting deputy commissioner Michael Fuller said Australia Day is about celebrating everything that’s great about our country and urged people to celebrate safely.

“Australia Day is more than just a public holiday and it should be an enjoyable event for all Australians and any overseas visitors joining the celebrations,” acting deputy commissioner Fuller said.

“Once again, police will be focusing on alcohol-fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour, and we encourage everyone to look out for themselves and their mates who might be intoxicated and vulnerable.

“Act responsibly and know your limits. Take the time to think about the consequences of your actions, remembering that alcohol impairs your judgement, leading to poor decisions and sometimes dangerous behaviour.

“By acting responsibly, you might save a life – and it might be yours,” acting deputy commissioner Fuller said.

In addition, police are reminding the community to check event information, especially relating to alcohol-free zones, as anyone found in possession of alcohol in these zones will face police action.

MORE INFORMATION:

* A complete Australia Day transport guide is available on the events page here or call 131 500 to plan your trip.

* If you are on the road check livetraffic.com for road information, prepare for delays and don’t drink and drive.

* For anyone heading out onto the water, exclusion zones and movement times apply. Please visit the rms website and follow the links to Maritime for details.