Sydney Gears Up for New Year's Eve with Record Police Presence, Long-Arm Rifles for Safety

December 30, 2025
Sydney Gears Up for New Year's Eve with Record Police Presence, Long-Arm Rifles for Safety
  • Public order officers will carry long-arm rifles as part of a heightened security operation, described by the NSW Police Commissioner as a reassurance measure rather than an indication of a specific threat.

  • Discussions with Commonwealth officials include possible deployments of Defence personnel and the Australian Federal Police in Sydney, with roles yet to be detailed.

  • NSW Premier announces a high-visibility New Year’s Eve in Sydney’s CBD and Harbour, calling on the public to attend celebrations as a show of defiance against terrorism and to help keep the city safe.

  • The policing strategy aims to make everyone feel safe, emphasizing inclusivity and protection for all communities, including Jewish and Muslim residents.

  • The Premier reiterates that celebrating in the Harbour CBD area is a deliberate stance against terror, with increased policing to safeguard attendees.

  • Policy guidance for protective measures will come from the Police Commissioner and senior NSW Police commanders.

  • The deployment of a record policing level follows the Bondi attack, reinforcing a focus on public safety ahead of New Year’s Eve.

  • Authorities confirm an intensified presence for New Year’s Eve, with up to about 3,000 officers in metropolitan Sydney.

  • Police Minister notes many officers volunteered for extra shifts after Operation Shelter, with additional hours planned for New Year’s Eve.

  • Lanyon acknowledges a 2,000-officer shortfall but affirms ongoing recruitment and retention efforts to meet public-safety commitments.

  • Ministerial remarks frame terrorism as a fear-based threat and advocate normalcy and communal gatherings as resilience.

  • More than 2,500 officers will be deployed across Sydney for New Year’s Eve, with long-arm weapons and concentrated coverage around Harbour areas.

Summary based on 2 sources


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Sources


‘Changes’: Minns’ huge call on armed cops

news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site for latest headlines • Dec 30, 2025

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