Members of the public can expect an increased and highly visible police presence in and around designated security areas throughout the event.
To support public safety and event security, temporary special powers are in place for WA Police during the Land Forces 2026 event period from 1 October to 10 October 2026.
The WA Police Force respects the right of individuals to peacefully protest and express their views. Western Australians have a strong history of doing so in a lawful, respectful and safe manner, and police expect that standard to continue during Land Forces 2026.
The special powers apply only within designated Land Forces security areas and are designed to assist police in maintaining public safety, protecting event infrastructure and ensuring the safe movement of people throughout the event precinct.
Under the legislation, police may establish checkpoints, roadblocks and controlled entry points where required.
People entering designated security areas may be asked to provide their name, date of birth and address, and may be required to verify their identity.
Police may also conduct searches of people, bags and vehicles, and use metal detectors at entry points or within designated security areas.
Anyone refusing to comply with lawful entry requirements may be refused entry to, or directed to leave, a security area.
Police may also exclude individuals who fail to comply with lawful directions, pose a risk to public safety, event security or public order, or are subject to a legislated exclusion list due to a history of, or propensity for, violent behaviour, particularly during protests.
The legislation also provides police with the authority to seize prohibited items that may pose a safety risk or be used to disrupt the event.
These powers are preventative in nature and are intended to deter dangerous or disruptive behaviour before it occurs.
They are temporary, apply only for the duration of the event and are subject to legislative safeguards to ensure they are exercised lawfully, proportionately and only when necessary.
The priority of the WA Police Force is to keep attendees, workers, exhibitors and the wider community safe while ensuring the event can proceed securely.
