ACT Policing launch Safe Summer campaign

ACT Policing has launched the Safe Summer campaign for 2020 encouraging all Canberrans to party safely, drink responsibly, and look out for their mates as the summer season kicks into gear.

Warm weather and long summer nights mean more Canberrans out and about celebrating a Christmas or New Year party, an Australia Day barbecue, or watching live sport here in Canberra.

Last year’s Safe Summer campaign saw alcohol-fuelled assaults fall for the second summer in a row.  Assaults were down 23 per cent in 2018-19 and down 33 per cent for 2017-18. 

Infringement notices for anti-social behaviour and consuming alcohol in public were also down by 25% last summer and ACT Policing is encouraging everyone to celebrate responsibly to see these positive trends continue in 2020.

ACT Policing Chief Police Officer Neil Gaughan said while most people know their limits, a great night out can quickly turn sour if you have one too many.

“It’s no secret Canberrans love to celebrate over summer and police certainly don’t want to spoil the fun,” Chief Police Officer Gaughan said.

“Preventing most cases of alcohol-related violence and crime comes down to behaving responsibly and stopping minor matters from escalating.

“Not only do alcohol and drugs make it harder for you to communicate effectively, they also impact your ability to reason and make decisions. 

“When combined, these factors put you at a greater risk of committing a crime or becoming a victim yourself.”

COVID-19 will also make this a Christmas like no other so if you are heading out to crowded places this summer, make sure you observe social distancing and obey all health directions so we can keep the ACT COVID-safe.

ACT Policing members will continue to work throughout the holiday period patrolling licensed premises, entertainment precincts to support the ACT Health COVID-19 directions and continuing to focus on impaired and unsafe driving on the roads.

ACT Policing encourages Canberrans to consider the following Safe Summer tips:

• Think beyond tonight: One drug-related conviction can have a serious effect on your future.
• If you are directed to leave a venue by security or police, you must leave the venue, and be at least 50 metres away.
• And remember, road safety is everyone’s responsibility, don’t drive under the influence. Take breaks when driving long distances. And stay attentive behind the wheel.

You can find more information and helpful tips about how you, your friends and family can stay safe this summer on the ACT Policing website.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au