Crowded places

There are robust arrangements in Australia to protect crowded places, including close cooperation between law enforcement agencies and owners and operators of venues, including local government.  These will continue, as will many of the existing arrangements to protect those attending specific events or attending crowded places such as sporting events or transit centres.

You may see increased security around specific events or crowded places, which may mean delays – listen to local authorities and event organisers and arrive earlier if asked to do so.

Places where large numbers of people gather are at a greater risk of a terrorist attack.  Places most at risk are those where the attendance of large numbers is predictable, and where security controls are minimal.  This includes:

• entertainment venues
• hotels and convention centres
• major events
• public transport hubs
• sporting venues
• shopping and business precincts
• tourist attractions
• significant one-off events.

Risk assessment and advice

The national terrorism threat level for Australia changed to PROBABLE on 5 August 2024.

It is important that you are aware of the increased threat.  While you should be more vigilant, you should also have confidence to go about your life – for most of us the change in threat level will have little to no practical impact.

Australia’s law enforcement and security agencies are among the best in the world and continue to do everything within their powers to keep our community safe.

Violent extremists seek to create wedges between us. The glue that holds us together is mutual respect – a deep recognition that each of us is entitled to the same respect, dignity, and opportunities. We strongly condemn anyone who incites violence and hatred within our community.

You can continue to provide valuable information to assist security and law enforcement agencies identify potential threats and prevent them from developing. If it doesn’t add up, speak up, by calling the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

On this page you will find some useful documents, links, a guided self-assessment tool and an audit to help you assess the threat of terrorism at your location.

Information about the National Terrorism Threat Advisory System and the current level can be found at www.nationalsecurity.gov.au.

In the event of an attack, what you do matters

Although we live in a safe country, we are still at risk from attacks in crowded places. In the unlikely event you are facing an armed attacker, you need to act quickly and remember 3 words: ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL. Learn more.

For Events Held in South Australia Only

Crowded places self-assessment tool

If you are the owner or operator of a place/event in South Australia where large groups of people gather, use the safety assessment for crowded places to:

• assess the likelihood of a terrorist attack
• get advice on where to go for risk management guidance.

SAPOL encourages you to take the time to complete the questionnaire.

Complete the Crowded places self-assessment

Note, the guided self-assessment will be updated shortly to reflect Australia's Strategy for Protecting Crowded Places from Terrorism but the above link should still be used in the meantime.

Once you have completed the self-assessment tool, it is advisable for you to undertake the complementary Crowded Places Security Audit. This primarily aims to:

• present a menu of security issues, some of which may be relevant to the type, size and risk profile of your crowded place; and
• provide an impetus for you to address any security gaps in a proportionate manner.

Complete the Crowded Places Security Audit

Event planning advice

If you are planning a community event, contact your SAPOL District/Local Service Area planner for advice.

District/Local Service Area planners are located at the following locations:

If you are planning a major event, contact the Emergency and Major Event Section on 7322 4275 for advice.

If you require further information or advice in relation to crowded places or the self-assessment tool please contact the Security Preparedness Unit. Phone 7322 3623 or make an enquiry online.