In a significant and highly visible security escalation, Victoria Police will deploy officers armed with longarm semi-automatic rifles to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the upcoming Boxing Day Test match. The move is described as a proactive, precautionary measure in response to the broader threat environment, rather than any specific new intelligence.
Visible Security Presence Across Five Days
The increased police presence will be active for all five scheduled days of play. Officers from the elite Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) will conduct patrols not only outside the iconic stadium but also in key surrounding areas. These include Birrarung Marr, Jolimont Railway Station, and Yarra Park.
This specialised armed deployment is in addition to the general duties police, Mounted Branch, and Public Order Response Team officers who were already planned to be inside and outside the ground. Extra police and Public Safety Officers will also be stationed around the Yarra precinct, covering areas like Richmond and Jolimont railway stations.
A Proactive Measure for Community Safety
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush acknowledged that the sight of heavily armed officers might be unusual for the public. However, he emphasised that the overt strategy is intended as an additional safeguard.
"This overt presence is about adding another layer of protection to make sure cricket fans feel safe," Commissioner Bush stated. "It’s important to stress this is a proactive, precautionary measure based on the current threat environment and not a specific new threat to this event."
The police force confirmed it has been working closely with Cricket Australia and the Melbourne Cricket Club, both of which are supportive of the heightened security arrangements.
Context of Recent Security Operations
This decision follows similar visible security ramps-up at other major public events across Australia in recent days. A heavily policed vigil for the victims of the Bondi terror attack in Sydney on Sunday night featured snipers on rooftops and police boats on the water.
Similarly, South Australia Police bolstered their presence and security measures at Adelaide Oval during the Third Ashes Test last week following the terror attack. The Victoria Police action for the Boxing Day Test appears to be part of a consistent, nationally coordinated approach to securing large-scale public gatherings.
Commissioner Bush framed the move as part of a modern policing strategy: "As a modern, forward-thinking police force we should always be looking for new and different ways to be there for our communities." The primary goal remains ensuring the safety and security of the tens of thousands of cricket fans expected to attend the marquee sporting event.
