Officers will be enforcing a reduced speed threshold of 4kmh for speed cameras, but they have the discretion to ticket anyone travelling over the limit - as they always have, road policing national manager Superintendent Carey Griffiths says.
''The police approach to speed enforcement has not changed,'' he said.
''Officers have always had the ability to issue infringements [notices] for any speed above the limit, depending on the circumstances, and will continue to use their discretion to appropriately and fairly deal with any driver stopped.
''However, what has changed is how we talk about speed.
''Let's move away from talking about a tolerance for speeding and other unsafe driving behaviour.''
Police and road safety agencies would be stepping up their efforts in the push to see more people reach their homes and holiday destinations safely and fewer people killed and injured.
''We want everyone to have a safe and happy Christmas and an enjoyable and relaxing holiday break,'' Supt Griffiths said.
''To do this we need the help of everyone - drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists alike.
''The focus for police this summer during our 'Reach the Beach' campaign will be on strictly enforcing reduced speed and alcohol limits, as well as targeting those not wearing safety belts, or using their phone, or who are otherwise using our roads in a way that puts all of us at risk.
''It means that if you are stopped for any reason, you should expect to be breath-tested.''
On December 1, the breath-alcohol limit for drivers aged 20 and over was lowered to 250mcg and the blood-alcohol limit to 50mg, down from 400mcg and 80mg respectively.
''While most people seem to have adjusted well to the new limits ... police will be continuing to rigorously enforce alcohol limits at all levels,'' Supt Griffiths said.
''If any of your mates have been drinking and plan to drive, speak up. Help them find alternative transport or ask them to sleep on the sofa.''
Research showed travelling at or below the posted speed limit reduced deaths and injuries on roads, Supt Griffiths said.
''Any family that we can spare the grief of losing a loved one this Christmas by driving more slowly, sensibly and soberly is something that is in all of our power to do,'' he said.
The road toll so far this year stands at 281 - up 35 from this time last year, which ended with a record 60 year low of 253 deaths, including 42 pedestrians.
''Drivers also need to be mindful that pedestrians, especially children, are among our most vulnerable road users, and [drivers] need to take extra care in and around pedestrian areas,'' Supt Griffiths said.
He had some advice for all motorists taking to the road during the holiday period.
''If you are heading away, please plan your trip carefully,'' he said.
''Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, get a good night's sleep beforehand, and take plenty of rest breaks along the way.
''Watching your speed, avoiding alcohol and, of course, wearing your safety belt will also help ensure you make it to and from your destination safely.
''Slower drivers are also asked to be considerate and pull over where safe to allow traffic to pass you.
''Police can and do ticket those who impede the flow of traffic, which causes frustration for others and can prompt others to take unnecessary risks.''
