New Year’s crowds praised, record police presence
Millions of Australians packed beaches, parks, backyards and lounges to ring in the new year with spectacular fireworks displays.
Amidst the chaos and celebrations, revelers paused for a moment on behalf of the Jewish community.
All eyes were on Sydney Harbor on New Year’s Eve; Weeks after the terror attack on Bondi Beach, the party paused for a minute’s silence for the victims.
A menorah depicting a dove with the words “peace” and “unity” glowed on the pillars of the Harbor Bridge.
Following the moment of silence, singer-songwriter Matt Corby performed INXS’s song Never Tear Us Apart.
There was a strong police presence in major cities and centres, and revelers were praised for their behavior at the country’s biggest fireworks displays.
Police have increased patrols in NSW and thousands of armed officers maintain a visible presence across the port city.
Operation New Year’s Eve 2025 involved uniformed and plainclothes officers on high-visibility patrols as crowds gathered in the CBD, along the shores of Sydney Harbor and at events across the state.
Following the Bondi terror attack, police carried long-armed weapons for additional protection.
More than 38 people have been arrested across Sydney for offenses including assault, affray, assaulting police and offensive behavior.
Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna said: “We have seen people come together after a heartbreaking month. Most revelers had a safe and trouble-free night.”
“Unfortunately the police were stalled by a handful of people doing the wrong thing, particularly the setting off of illegal fireworks which resulted in numerous injuries.
“The top priority of our operation was the safety of the community and thousands of police officers were on duty to ensure people enjoyed their night and returned home without incident.”
Victoria Police was also pleased with the crowd’s behavior but was disappointed by more than 300 firework incidents, which led to several serious injuries.
Among those injured were a 31-year-old Mickleham man who was taken to hospital with serious injuries to his face, and 43-year-old Corio, who was also hospitalized with serious injuries to his fingers.
Following a fireworks accident at the Treasure Place building, the roof garden caught fire; The fire was extinguished in a short time and no injuries occurred.
Police responded to minor incidents in Brisbane and Adelaide and a number of arrests were made.
Offenses related to public nuisance and drug possession, along with scissors, a knife and a box cutter, were spotted wandering around Jack’s Law in Brisbane.
Around midnight, police were called to disturbances in the City of Brisbane where a man armed with scissors was involved in an argument with two teenagers.
“There will always be a small number of people who will choose to do the wrong thing,” Queensland Acting Chief Inspector Heath McQueen said.
“However, thanks to our large police presence, we were able to respond quickly to these minor incidents and minimize disruption to the celebrations.”
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