Victoria Police will be alongside revellers as the clock counts down to midnight as part of a significant state-wide operation focused on high visibility policing to support community safety.
An extensive safety and security plan will see thousands of police patrolling Victorian cities, towns, coastlines and popular holiday destinations to ensure it's a safe night for everyone.
Frontline police will have a dedicated and strong presence in these areas, with the support of specialist squads including Air Wing, Dog Squad, Public Order Response Team, Mounted Branch and Water Police.
Mobile Protective Services Officers (PSOs) will be on trains and trams, and at train stations around Melbourne and in key areas across the state including Geelong, Ballarat, Frankston, Bendigo and Traralgon.
A number of road closures will be in place across the CBD and Southbank to support the extended outdoor dining activities, as well as other suburban and regional areas where public celebrations are being held.
Operation Roadwise will continue throughout New Year's Eve which continues to target drink, drug, speeding and distracted drivers.
Police will have additional search powers under the Control of Weapons Act in designated areas including the CBD, St Kilda foreshore, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong's surf coast and Phillip Island.
The activation of the Omni Operation in these areas provide police with additional powers to search for and detect any weapons coming into these areas, eliminating anti-social and dangerous behaviour.
Police will also be cracking down on illegal fireworks. This activity poses a real risk of serious injury and fire, and anyone caught using illegal fireworks can face criminal charges including jail for up to 15 years, and thousands of dollars worth of fines.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Commissioner Luke Cornelius
"Victorians have shown how resilient they are this year, and we look forward to safely bringing in the new year with the community in our cities, towns, coastlines and popular holiday destinations.
"There will be a strong and dedicated police presence right across the state to ensure celebrations are kept safe and people who make it unsafe, or harm others are held to account".
"Everyone needs to be aware of their own personal responsibility to look after themselves and others this New Year's Eve. We know excessive drinking and use of illicit drugs can lead to devastating consequences including violent crime, serious assault, anti-social behaviour and road trauma."
"Anyone thinking of coming into a city, town or celebration anywhere in the state to cause trouble - our advice is simply don't. You will be arrested and you will be held to account."
"Make sure you plan ahead and work out how you are going to get to and from your destination - it would be devastating to think that someone might not make it to 2021 because of a bad decision made on New Year's Eve."
