The end-of-year holiday period is one of the busiest and most incident-prone times across Australia. Families, communities, and businesses experience crowded shopping areas, holiday gatherings, increased travel, and unattended homes.
This guide provides practical tips and advice for Australians to stay safe – whether at home, in a business, or within the community – during Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year.
Christmas Safety
What safety risks are common for homes during Christmas?
Homes may face risks like burglary, package theft, fire hazards from decorations, or accidents during festive gatherings.
How can families keep their homes safe while away for holidays?
Lock all doors and windows
Use timers for lights to create the appearance of occupancy
Inform a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on the property
Secure parcels and gifts in hidden or lockable areas
How can communities stay safe during Christmas events?
Local groups should:
Monitor crowd sizes
Ensure emergency exits are clear
Use volunteers or patrols to guide attendees
Have first-aid kits and emergency contacts available
What precautions should be taken during Christmas travel?
Lock your vehicle, avoid leaving valuables inside, park in well-lit areas, and remain vigilant in crowded car parks.
Boxing Day Safety
Why is Boxing Day considered a high-risk day for safety?
With huge shopping crowds, major sporting events, and public gatherings, the chance of accidents, theft, or crowd-related incidents increases.
How can Australians stay safe while shopping on Boxing Day?
Keep wallets and bags secure
Travel with family or friends
Stay aware of exits and emergency access points
Follow store guidelines for queues and crowd flow
What should communities do to maintain safety during Boxing Day events?
Assign volunteers or stewards to manage traffic and crowds
Ensure pathways and public spaces are well-lit
Have emergency contacts and medical support available
How can families protect their vehicles during Boxing Day?
Park in secure, monitored areas, lock doors, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
New Year Safety
What safety risks are common during New Year celebrations?
Large parties, fireworks, crowded public events, and increased travel all raise the risk of accidents, vandalism, and minor injuries.
How can Australians enjoy New Year safely at home?
Keep fire hazards away from decorations
Supervise fireworks carefully
Ensure walkways are clear to prevent trips or falls
Assign a responsible adult to monitor activities
How can communities prepare for New Year events?
Organise crowd control measures
Set up first-aid stations
Provide clear signage for exits and emergency services
Schedule volunteers or staff for patrols
What should Australians do if attending large public celebrations?
Stay aware of your surroundings
Keep personal items secure
Follow directions from event staff or local authorities
Have an emergency meeting point for family or friends
How can Australians prevent theft or break-ins during holidays?
Lock all doors and windows, secure valuables, avoid posting travel plans publicly, and ask neighbours or community groups to keep an eye on your property.
How can I ensure safety for children during holiday events?
Keep them close, use wristbands with contact information for large events, and establish a meeting point if separated.
What are the most important safety steps for pets during holidays?
Ensure pets are in secure areas, monitor fireworks or loud events, provide water and shade, and never leave them unattended outside.
How can communities improve overall safety during the holiday period?
Organise community patrols, share emergency contact lists, communicate safety tips, and maintain well-lit public spaces.
