Police have warned the community “times have changed” ahead of this year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Troy Grant, NSW Minister for Police, tells Mark Levy there will be a higher police presence and additional bollards in crowded places.

“We’ll be doing everything imaginable to make sure the environment is free of problems.”

Mr Grant denies additional security measures have gone too far.

“Could you imagine if something did happen and these measures weren’t taken?

“We’d be hung, drawn and quartered. It would be negligent for the police and the council not to look at every opportunity to protect the public.”

Mr Grant says Australians should continue to enjoy festivities with family.

“We shouldn’t stop doing that but the community needs to be aware that times have changed. There are things around them necessary to keep them safe.”

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