The operation will run over the October long weekend from midnight on Friday, September 28 through to midnight on Monday, October 1.

Hume Police will target speeding, drink driving, mobile phone use, seatbelt offences and helmet offences for motorcycle riders, and double demerits will be in force during the operation.

Double demerits will also apply in school zones on Friday, September 28.

Hume Police District chief inspector Brendan Bernie said this was a “high-profile police operation” aimed at increasing safety on the roads.

“We urge motorists to take care and make sure they allow sufficient time to get to their destination safely,” chief inspector Bernie said.

“We also want motorists to manage their fatigue appropriately.”​

Low-range drink drivers will lose their licence on the spot under changes passed by the NSW Parliament on Thursday.

The new rules will see drivers who test between 0.05 and 0.08 lose their licence for three months and also be hit with a $561 fine.

The penalty will apply to first-time drug detection offences.

The interlock program, which links a breath-testing device to a car’s ignition, will be extended to mid-range driving offences.

High-risk repeat offenders could also see their licence plates confiscated and vehicle impounded.

The rules will come into force at the end of 2018.

“We needed a stronger deterrent,” said Roads Minister Melinda Pavey.

“Last year 55 people lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes and 81 people died in crashes involving someone with illicit drugs in their system.

“The 0.05 limit has been in place in NSW for almost 38 years. Today is about driving home to the community that there are no more excuses.”