VIDEO: Hunter Drivers Warned as Double Demerits Begin: Police Issue Safety Plea from Warners Bay

17 April 2025

Hunter drivers are being urged to take extra care this Easter long weekend, with double demerits now in force and police launching a high-visibility road safety campaign from Warners Bay. The statewide crackdown comes as road deaths continue to rise across New South Wales, including a spike in the Hunter region.

A press conference held at Warners Bay on Wednesday saw Police Minister Yasmin Catley and senior police call on the public to take responsibility for their behaviour behind the wheel. “Have a great time, but make the Easter long weekend memorable for the right reasons,” Minister Catley said. “We’ve seen too many deaths on our roads. We do not want that knock on the door for any family this weekend.”

The first double demerit period runs from Thursday 17 April to Monday 21 April, with another to follow from Thursday 24 April to Sunday 27 April. Drivers caught speeding, using mobile phones, or failing to wear a seatbelt or helmet during these times face tougher penalties.

Chief Inspector Dave Driver, who travelled from Sydney, confirmed an increased police presence across the state, with particular attention on the Hunter due to a recent spike in fatalities. “People need to anticipate that we can be anywhere, any time,” he said. “We’ve had 103 lives lost in New South Wales so far this year, 27 of those were motorcyclists.”

Authorities are especially concerned about fatigue, drink and drug driving, and the use of mobile phones. “It can take about the length of a football field to stop from 100 kilometres an hour when your car is loaded,” Inspector Driver said, urging drivers to rest before travelling and allow more space on the roads.

The warnings have been echoed by local MPs. Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said, “Every time you drive drunk, distracted, or dangerously, you’re putting yourself and others at risk.” Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison added, “Long weekends are a special time to connect with loved ones, but they’re also when our roads are at their busiest.”

Cessnock MP Clayton Barr added his voice to the campaign, urging residents across the region to take care. “Sadly in 2025 there have already been several fatalities in our area,” he said. “We want everyone to return home safe to their families. If you speed, drive under the influence, use your phone, or push through fatigue, you’re putting lives at risk. Don’t do it.”

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said drivers also have a role to play alongside government safety initiatives. “Any life lost on our roads is a tragedy, and we are asking drivers to take every precaution they can to be safe on our roads,” she said. “This Easter, drive so others survive and remember safer roads start with you.”

The NSW Government continues to roll out its 2026 Road Safety Action Plan, which includes expanded speed camera enforcement, seatbelt detection technology, and a $2.8 billion investment in safety projects, 72 of them across regional, rural and remote areas. From 1 May 2025, average speed cameras for light vehicles will also begin operating at two regional trial sites.

Drivers are reminded that the rules apply at all times, not just during public holidays. Police also urged parents to speak with teenagers about the risks of riding e-bikes and motorbikes during the school break.

Last Easter, seven lives were lost on NSW roads. This year, police say the goal is simple: zero.