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ACT Policing is putting impaired drivers on notice, with officers targeting alcohol and drug-affected motorists across Canberra throughout August as part of its monthly road safety focus.
Officers from ACT Road Policing and police stations across the territory will conduct high-visibility and intelligence-led roadside testing operations, with drivers reminded they can be tested for alcohol and drugs anywhere, anytime.
Impaired driving is one of the fatal five driving behaviours and remains a leading contributor to death and serious injury on Australian roads. Driving while impaired decreases reaction time, reduces a person’s ability to concentrate, impairs judgement and can lead to increased risk-taking and reckless driving.
Last financial year ACT Policing conducted 100,688 random breath tests and 3,118 roadside drug tests. From those tests, police laid 528 drink driving charges and 700 drug driving charges.
Road Policing Detective Inspector Mark Steel said the figures showed too many drivers were still taking unacceptable risks on Canberra roads.
“It is disappointing that so many people still think they can get behind the wheel when they are impaired, putting themselves, their passengers and other road users at significant risk,” Detective Inspector Steel said.
Since 1 January 2025, ACT Policing has been able to test drivers for the presence of cocaine, in addition to cannabis, methamphetamine and MDMA. Police use intelligence-led targeted drug testing alongside highly visible roadside breath and drug testing activities.
“If you are planning to drink or take drugs, do not drive. Organise a lift, use public transport, book a rideshare or taxi, or make other arrangements before you get behind the wheel,” Detective Inspector Steel said.
“Impaired driving places every road user at risk, and police will continue proactive patrols and enforcement activities to target these drivers and remove them from our roads.”