ACT Policing will have a highly visible presence at the Australia Day Live concert tomorrow (Friday, January 25) to ensure a trouble-free event.
This year, as in previous years, ACT Policing will place a particular focus on identifying alcohol-affected juveniles, with event security instructed to turn away young people who appear to be affected by alcohol.
The free concert will be held on the lawns of Parliament House, at Federation Mall, from 6pm to 10pm.
The Operation Commander for the event, Superintendent Robert Wilson, said that ACT Policing will be working closely with event organisers and security at the event to ensure everyone has a good time.
“One of our priorities, as with every year, is to ensure that families attending Australia Day celebrations will not be subjected to anti-social behaviour, especially the behaviour of young people under the influence of alcohol,” Superintendent Wilson said.
‘‘We encourage people to come along for a family day out, but be warned public safety will be our main focus.’’
‘‘We’re asking people to be sensible, be responsible and look after each other. We don’t want what is meant to be an enjoyable day spoilt by loutish behaviour.’’
The operational strategy around the event will involve the early detection and interruption of underage drinking in the areas surrounding Parliament House.
Proactive patrols will operate around Parliament House from midday (Friday, January 25) and will include known locations where young people consume alcohol.
Last year 44 young persons were taken into police custody for being either intoxicated or possessing alcohol.
ACT Policing is urging motorists to drive safely over the Australia Day long weekend and warns that double demerits will apply for speeding and seatbelt offences, with an extra point for all other traffic offences. Double demerit points are effective from the first instance of Friday, January 25 until midnight January 28, 2013.
28 January 2025
