Music and sport fans face heightened security measures at Melbourne stadiums

Music and sports fans may face heightened anti-terror security measures at Melbourne major stadiums the MCG, Etihad Stadium and AAMI Park.

Victoria Police has confirmed it has been in talks with sporting bodies running the venues as part of protection strategies for places in Melbourne where large crowds gather. 

But police stressed that no policies had been introduced as yet. However, indications are that they will be introduced by the end of the year, when the summer concerts and sports seasons begin.

Victoria Police has set up a new Crowded Places Security Advisory Group would work with music venues in entertainment hubs, as well as sporting codes and shopping centres.

In the days and weeks after the horrific bombing at Manchester Arena during an Ariana Grande concert on May 22, in which 23 adults and children were killed and 119 injured, security was stepped up at a number of major music events around the country.

As 150 concrete bollards were being installed across Melbourne (including some stadiums) to stop vehicle rampages such as the one on Bourke St that killed six people in January, initiatives for venues include body scanners similar to those in airports, and have their possessions and bags searched separately.

Only clear bags will be allowed, similar to policies already introduced by concert promoters across the country.

Catering firms might have to bring in food and drinks some days before the event.