The Queensland Government, in conjunction with the Queensland Police Service (QPS), has launched a state-wide road safety operation, Operation Mistletoe, ahead of the busy Christmas and New Year period. Officially designated Operation X-Ray Mistletoe, this high-visibility police operation is designed to reduce road fatalities and targets a specific crackdown on speeding and impaired driving, including both drink and drug driving on roads and waterways.

Operation X-Ray Mistletoe begins this Saturday, December 13, and will continue throughout the entire holiday season. The operation sees an increased number of police patrolling Queensland roads as authorities work to crack down on the “Fatal 5”.

The operation comes in response to a tragic toll of 289 lives already lost on Queensland roads in 2025,. Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie highlighted the devastating impact, stating that 289 families have had their lives “torn apart and forever changed,” with every holiday now a constant reminder of their loss,.

Targeted Enforcement Across State

Police will conduct thousands of roadside and on-water drug and alcohol tests throughout the operation. These efforts will be supported by specialist officers, mobile patrols, and targeted enforcement activities focusing on high-risk locations.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering more police to the frontline to restore safety across Queensland, having bolstered frontline police numbers by 472 officers in just 12 months.

Minister Purdie urged Queensland motorists to make smart choices and follow road rules during the busy period. He delivered a clear warning to those who might break the law: “If you don’t follow the rules – our police will be out in force, as part of Operation Mistletoe, with a targeted crackdown on speeding and impaired driving. We will not tolerate drivers who disregard the Fatal 5 and put the lives of other road users at risk”.

Commissioner Appeals for Responsibility

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg implored Queenslanders to remain alert and never drive under the influence, stressing the importance of doing the right thing whether on the busiest highways, back roads, or suburban streets,.

Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski emphasized the human cost of the road toll, noting that 289 families are without a loved one this Christmas. “These are not just numbers – these represent a parent, child, partner, mate,” Commissioner Gollschewski said. He urged Queenslanders to take responsibility for the choices they make when driving or taking to the water.

The Commissioner warned potential offenders, “Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, driving to a holiday destination or out on the water, expect to see police. If you choose to speed, drink or drug drive, or take risks, you will be caught.” He concluded by urging citizens to “make the choices that save lives”.

Road Policing and Regional Support Commands’ Acting Assistant Commissioner Adam Guild thanked most Queenslanders who “do the right thing” and make responsible choices. However, he reiterated the stern warning for those who put others at risk: “Police will be ready to respond the moment you make that choice”. Authorities aim for every Queenslander to arrive home safely this holiday season and every day.