MELBOURNE – With 500,000 people expected to pour into the CBD to welcome 2026, the Victorian Government and City of Melbourne have launched a massive coordinated safety effort involving Victoria Police and emergency services.
Acting Minister for Police Enver Erdogan joined Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece today to announce the measures, emphasising that the city is prepared for its busiest night of the year. This year’s festivities will be anchored by a sprawling fireworks and laser display launched from 27 different rooftops across the skyline.
“New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year and we’re making sure Victorians can safely ring in the new year no matter where they are celebrating from,” Acting Minister Erdogan said.
Key Safety and Security Measures
To ensure the massive crowds can move safely through the city, authorities have outlined several critical security protocols:
- Increased Patrols: Uniformed and plain-clothed officers will conduct extra patrols focusing on violence and antisocial behavior.
- Weapon Searches: Police and Protective Service Officers (PSOs) will be stationed at transport hubs. St Kilda’s foreshore and Geelong’s CBD have been declared designated areas for weapon searches.
- Operation Roadwise: A state-wide traffic operation will target speeding, dangerous driving, and motorists affected by drugs or alcohol.
- Crowd Infrastructure: Seven kilometres of fencing will be installed to manage crowd flow, particularly in high-density areas.
“Victoria Police and PSOs will be present during festivities to protect the community — however it’s important to remember to plan ahead and look out for each other so we can all celebrate safely,” Minister Erdogan added.
Family-Friendly Celebration Zones
For families looking to enjoy the festivities in a safe, alcohol-free environment, four dedicated Celebration Zones will offer entertainment and prime fireworks views:
- Flagstaff Gardens: Featuring DJs, dance workshops, and live entertainment.
- Treasury Gardens: Featuring DJs, dance workshops, and live entertainment.
- Kings Domain: Featuring DJs, dance workshops, and live entertainment.
- Docklands: Featuring DJs, dance workshops, and live entertainment.
All zones will feature a dedicated fireworks display at 9:30 PM for families with young children before the main midnight event.
Safety and Security Operations
On the security front, police have declared the St Kilda foreshore and Geelong’s CBD as designated areas for weapon searches. Additionally, “Operation Roadwise” will be in full effect across the state, with police targeting speeding, dangerous driving, and motorists under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Major road closures will be in place to facilitate safe pedestrian movement, including:
- Swanston Street / St Kilda Road
- Flinders Street (between Market Street and Exhibition Street)
Commuters and drivers are advised to visit nye.melbourne.vic.gov.au to check the latest road closures and detour information before heading into the city.
