With more than one million people expected flock to Melbourne for the Moomba Festival this long weekend, police are preparing to field a significant presence in and around the CBD.
Victoria Police have undertaken extensive preparations with partners including the City of Melbourne to ensure everyone can come and enjoy the festival safely.
Commander Tim Hansen said police's number one priority would be the safety and security of everybody coming into the city to celebrate.
"Day and night there will be a strong, dedicated and consistent police presence throughout the city," Cmdr Hansen said.
"We expect people to come out and enjoy a fun-filled, family-friendly event.
"Our message to anyone thinking of coming into the city to cause trouble is simply don't bother; you will be arrested and held to account if you break the law.
"We'll be on the lookout right across Melbourne, including at train stations and on train and tram routes, for any anti-social or criminal behaviour.
"Police will act swiftly; we have never been better prepared and equipped to crackdown on trouble makers in the CBD.
"Every person coming into the city this weekend can be assured police will be working tirelessly to ensure it is a safe and enjoyable festival."
Frontline police will be supported by the Operations Response Unit, Critical Incident Response Team, Highway Patrol, Transit Safety Division, Mounted Branch and Water Police to prevent and deter crime.
The Moomba Festival takes place along the banks of the Yarra in Melbourne from Friday 8 until Monday 11 March.
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