Source: ACT Police
ACT Policing has launched its Safe Summer campaign for 2025, with officers set to take a highly visible and proactive approach across the city centre over the summer months.
Canberrans enjoying our city can expect to see police across our entertainment venues, patrolling on foot, conducting venue walkthroughs and responding to dedicated CCTV monitoring.
ACT Policing’s Territory Targeting Team, along with general duties and road policing patrols, will have an increased presence to support a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
The community is encouraged to say hello to officers, seek assistance if needed, and use their presence as a reassurance that help is close by throughout the city.
Detective Acting Superintendent Anthony Brown said the Safe Summer campaign encourages people to enjoy the season responsibly by reminding people to consider their alcohol and drug consumption, road safety and personal safety.
“We are asking people to keep safe in the city, be aware of your surroundings, look out for your mates and remember that police are there to help,” Detective Acting Superintendent Brown said.
“However, if you choose to act irresponsibly or break the law, there will be consequences. We will not hesitate to lay charges or issue fines in response to criminal or anti-social behaviour.
“Road safety will also be a focus of this campaign, with police maintaining a high visibility presence on our roads throughout the summer with a focus being on removing impaired and speeding drivers.
“The message is simple – have fun, be safe, and make decisions that help you remember your night out for the right reasons.”
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson, said it’s important that this summer is remembered for the right reasons.
“The safety of the community is always the Government’s top priority and this campaign is a great opportunity to remind everyone to stay safe over the summer months,” Dr Paterson said.
“I urge Canberrans and those who are out and about in the City and other locations to look out for each other and act responsibly. Everyone has an important role in ensuring this summer is a safe one.”
Dr Kerrie Aust, President of the ACT branch of Australia’s peak doctors’ group, the Australian Medical Association, warned that Christmas time often sees an increase in emergency department presentations.
“There are simple things everyone can do to reduce their likelihood of spending Christmas in the emergency department.
“Be aware of your limits if you are drinking alcohol: this is not just for safe driving, but also for safe socialising. Tempers can flare when intoxicated – it is better to drink a little less and be able to take a step back if emotions are running high.
“Remember that speeding, alcohol consumption, fatigue, and distraction together account for nearly 70% of fatal crashes over the Christmas period. Plan your journeys when out and about, pay attention to the road and not your device screens, and think twice before jumping behind the wheel or on the e-bike or scooter if you have had a drink. And if you are travelling interstate remember the roads are busy –better to get there a little later rather than not at all.
“This Christmas, let’s enjoy the celebrations and look after ourselves and each other, on the roads, footpaths, and everywhere in between.”
ACT Policing continues to work closely with other services provided in the city to keep the community safe.
- The CBR Night Crew will have their tent set up in the bus interchange – providing a safe space and the provision of first-aid, phone chargers, water and lollipops as well as general assistance.
- Transport Canberra officers are available to offer advice and provide safe transport options.
- Licenced venue managers and security personnel are always in close communication with ACT Policing throughout the night reporting anti-social behaviour to keep patrons safe.
Find out more about alcohol and drug safety, safe party behaviours and the ACT drug law reforms, to assist you in making good choices this summer.
