Crowded places

Places where large numbers of people gather are at risk of a terrorist attack. 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.

Places most at risk are those where:

• attendance of large numbers is predictable
• security controls are minimal.

Risk assessment and advice

The national terrorism threat level for Australia is POSSIBLE - while Australia remains a potential terrorist target, there are fewer extremists with the intention to conduct an attack onshore.

A number of global factors and events have come together to indicate a terrorist attack in Australia is possible. This multifaceted threat was the reason the Commonwealth Government developed Australia's Strategy for Protecting Crowded Places from Terrorism in August 2017.

We must maintain vigilant in the face of an escalating global terrorist threat that continues to affect Australia. It is timely to review your security, emergency and business continuity plans.

Identifying potential targets for terrorist attack is not precise but there are things that you can do to minimise the risk.

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.

Related information

Australia's Strategy for Protecting Crowded Places from Terrorism

Active Armed Offender Guidelines for Crowded Places

Improvised Explosive Device Guidelines for Crowded Places

Chemical Weapon Guidelines for Crowded Places

Hostile Vehicle Guidelines for Crowded Places

National guidelines for the protection of critical infrastructure from terrorism

Australian Government information relating to National Security

Counter terrorism awareness for security industry personnel

Safe and Healthy Crowded Places Handbook

SafeWork SA Event Safety