Victoria Police has made a significant U-turn, revoking special powers that allowed officers to conduct warrantless pat-down searches across designated areas of inner Melbourne. The authority, known as a ‘Designated Area’ power, has been formally cancelled.
Controversial Powers and Their Application
The now-rescinded powers permitted police officers to stop and search individuals without a warrant in specific zones. This measure was initially implemented under the Control of Weapons Act 1990 and was a tool used to address weapon-related crime and public safety concerns in busy metropolitan areas.
However, the use of these powers had long been a point of contention. Critics argued that the practice lacked sufficient oversight and could lead to disproportionate targeting of certain community groups. The decision to revoke the authority follows sustained pressure from civil liberty advocates, legal experts, and community representatives who raised concerns about potential overreach and the impact on police-community relations.
Official Confirmation and Future Implications
A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed the revocation, stating the force continually reviews its operational procedures. The move effectively means that, outside of specific existing laws, officers in these inner-city locations will now require reasonable suspicion or a warrant to perform personal searches.
This policy shift is seen as a major development in the ongoing debate surrounding policing methods, public trust, and individual liberties in Australia's second-most populous state. While some law enforcement figures may express concern about losing a proactive tool, civil rights groups have hailed the decision as a victory for accountability and legal rights.
The revocation underscores a broader, global conversation about the balance between security and freedom. It places Victoria Police's practices under a new light, potentially setting a precedent for how similar powers are evaluated and employed in other Australian jurisdictions moving forward.
