What do you think of when I say the words “Crowded Places”?
Did you know that alongside obvious locations like transport hubs, sports stadiums, entertainment and dining venues, publicly accessible events can also be classified as crowded places?
This means they're vulnerable to acts of terror or extreme violence.
If you're an event organiser it's essential that you have solid security measures in place for the safety of attendees and assets.
So that everyone can enjoy the event without fear of harm or disruption.
Here are some simple things you can do to help you protect your event.
Go to vic.gov.au/crowded-places and check out the key steps to take when planning an event.
Event planning will often focus on ensuring crowd safety and a positive visitor experience, but having a security plan in place is equally important.
A security plan should outline your event's vulnerabilities to an act of extreme violence or terrorism and mitigation strategies.
There is a link to a national self-assessment tool on the vic.gov.au webpage, to help you get started.
Use the results from your event's vulnerability assessment to develop your security plan.
It's also important that you notify Victoria Police ahead of your event.
Large events require you to email the Victoria Police State Event Planning Unit, while local event organizers should contact the local police station in the area the event is being held.
Think carefully about the information you publicise ahead of your event.
Emphasise safety and security protocols and your partnership with police while minimising the sharing of unnecessary details that might help someone plan an attack.
Consider other security measures to enhance the safety of your event.
The focus will generally be on temporary measures for the duration of your event.
For a large event with a higher risk profile, this might look like security screening, installing CCTV, or engaging security personnel.
And installing temporary bollards or barriers.
Alternatively, if you're hosting a small event, consider security measures that are proportionate to the size and risk profile of your event, such as utilising natural barriers and having sufficient numbers of trained staff on site.
Importantly, train your event employees and volunteers.
You need them trained in security plans,
how to identify unusual behaviour and how to respond in the event of an incident or emergency.
These actions will go a long way to increasing the safety of your event from the risks of terrorism or extreme violence.
For more information, visit vic.gov/crowded-places to access a range of information and advice for protecting your event from the risks of terrorism and extreme violence.
Updated