How the Manchester and Bataclan Concert Attacks Will Affect Major Australian Events

Yesterday, the world watched in shock as reports emerged of an explosion at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

A few years ago, it might've been unthinkable, but with the eerie similarities to the Bataclan Theatre attack, authorities now need to consider how they'll further protect crowds at every major event in Australia.

In light of these attacks, it is likely that the security procedures at major venues such as stadiums, concerts and theatres will be beefed up. While Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop told Parliament House today that Australia’s threat level hasn’t changed, she explained that major events will be under review.

"We are also reviewing places of mass gathering, crowded places, to ensure to keep the places as safe as possible for Australians and tourists," Ms. Bishop explained.

This weekend, the Vivid Festival begins in Sydney and is expected to draw massive crowds in the millions over its three-week program. In open-air, cross-city festivals like this, it's hard for classic counter-terrorism security measures such as bag checks and metal detectors to work effectively.

In contained entertainment venues such as Sydney's ANZ Stadium where a football match between Liverpool FC and Sydney FC will be played, the stadium management will be on high alert.

"As with all major events, fans attending the match should arrive early to allow for security checks and to be in their seats in time for the pre-match build-up," management told News.com.au.

With other high profile musicians like Ed Sheeran and Lorde performing Australian shows in the next few months, it's likely that backpacks and large bags will be banned from the venue. 

Ed Sheeran's promoter, Frontier Touring, told News.com.au that backpacks "will strictly not be allowed." News.com.au is also reporting the possible introduction of a policy allowing only clear bags inside venues; a practice already used throughout the United States.

Stay safe out there. If you notice anything suspicious at a major event, alert authorities by calling the National Security hotline on 1800 1234 00 or in emergencies, 000.

Photo: iStock