Public notice: Melbourne on Sunday 15 December 2024

Declaration of designated place

The public place area depicted on the map below has been declared in writing to be a “designated area” by an Assistant Commissioner of Police under s.10E of the Control of Weapons Act 1990 (the Act).

Victoria Police powers in designated areas

Police officers and protective service officers (PSOs) are empowered to search a person and anything in the possession or control of the person, or a vehicle, for weapons under the Act. You, your vehicle or things in your possession are in a public place within a designated area.

A police officer or PSO intends to conduct a limited search of you or your vehicle/things:

• You are requested to co-operate with that search.
• You may be requested to remove items of outer clothing such as headwear, scarves, jackets, etc.
• You may be searched using an electronic wand.
• You may be requested to remove items from any bags or pockets.
• You may be given a “pat down” search.

A police officer may also exercise their power under the Act to direct you to leave the designated area if you refuse to remove a face covering.

A police officer may direct you to leave the designated area if they reasonably believe that you intend to engage in conduct that would constitute an affray or violent disorder under s.195H and s.195I of the Crimes Act 1958 respectively.

It is an offence under the Act to obstruct or hinder a police officer or PSO in the exercise of a power to stop and search a person or vehicle or to fail to comply with a direction to leave the designated area.

Boundary of the declared Designated Place

Declaration of designated area under s.10E of the Control of Weapons Act 1990 a designated area containing Melbourne CBD area bounded by:

• Queen Street
• Flinders Street
• Spring Street, and
• Victoria Street.