Petrol prices are set to surge above $2 a litre this long weekend

The newly-named King's Birthday long weekend falls on June 12 for all states and territories except Western Australia and Queensland.

Queensland celebrates the day on October 2 and Western Australia will mark the day on September 26.

A heavy police presence and rising petrol prices might encourage some drivers to steer clear of the roads this long weekend.

And Sydneysiders are specifically advised to stay off the roads near the CBD with the Vivid light show expected to draw large crowds.

Petrol prices are set to rise above $2 a litre this long weekend and drivers have been urged to sniff around for bargains before the King's Birthday break.

This weekend could see 45 cents difference between the cheapest and most expensive fuel.

Capital city drivers are paying $1.91 a litre on average and prices are already breaking $2 in parts of Sydney.

Police will be out in force and double demerit points are in place in NSW and the ACT from June 9 to 12.

NSW Police is targeting speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle helmet offences.

ACT road policing acting inspector Ken Williams said police were increasing their road presence ahead of the mass holiday exodus.

"If you are travelling interstate remember to drive to the conditions and take regular breaks," he said.

"We want to see people doing the right thing, slow down, obey the speed limit, and if you are drinking across the weekend, please don't drive," he said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Authorities are gearing up for a bumper long weekend in Sydney after light festival Vivid caused commuter pain on its opening night.

Videos posted to social media show stretching queues of people trying to access the city for the popular event.

The drone show has proved a hit with crowds flocking to the harbour to see the spectacle unfold above Circular Quay.

There are only two left, on June 12 and June 14, with large crowds expected.

Attendees are being advised to plan ahead with service changes on the night of the drone shows.

"Measures are in place to ensure everyone can enjoy the drone shows safely, and from many vantage points around Sydney Harbour," an event statement said.

"Stay up to date with the latest travel updates from Transport NSW and you can find further information on travelling to Vivid Sydney in our Trip Planning Guide.

With Australian Associated Press