Melbourne is one of the safest cities in the world in which to live, work and study. As with any big city, it is a good idea to get some local knowledge when you arrive. Talk to local people about areas they would avoid at night.
If you feel unsafe or threatened at any time, have anything stolen or are assaulted, you can contact the Police for help and report the incident. All Victoria Police wear a blue uniform (either a jumper or a patrol jacket) and carry a Victoria Police badge. In an emergency you can contact the Police, Fire Brigade and Ambulance by dialing 000.
You can ask someone you know and trust to contact the Police on your behalf. If you experience language difficulties when speaking with the Police, they will provide someone, free of charge, who speaks your language to address your issue.
If you require non-urgent advice or information or need to report a non-urgent matter, like lost property, you should attend or call your local Police Station.
10 Tips to help you travel safely around Melbourne
1 Plan your trip ahead of time. Carry a public transport timetable and know the time of your last train/tram/bus. Call 1800 800 007 (6am – midnight) or go to Public Transport Victoria for information on timetables, routes and ticketing.
2 Stand behind the yellow line until your train or tram arrives when waiting for public transport. Stand in well-lit areas. Make yourself aware of the location of security cameras.
3 Where possible travel with friends. If you are on your own, consider traveling in the front carriage of the train, near the driver’s cabin.
4 Be aware of the red emergency button located near the exits on the train. If you press this button, the train driver will be able to see you via a security camera and organize police assistance if you need it.
5 Be aware of what is going on around you, especially at night and remember your headphones, mobile phone or too much alcohol can distract you from your surroundings.
6 Walk confidently and with purpose. Walk with other people. After dark, stick to well-lit paths where you are visible to passing traffic.
7 If you feel at risk or uncomfortable when walking along the street, cross the street or change direction. Enter a shop or business where you can wait until you feel safe.
8 In an emergency call 000 for police, fire and ambulance. It is a free call from all public, mobile and land line phones. Program 000 into your mobile – just in case!
9 In non-emergency situations, when you require advice or information call in on your local police station. The local police station in the CBD is on Flinders Lane near Swanston Street.
10 If you witness or have knowledge about a crime, incident or offence, you can report it anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
10 tips for enjoying Melbourne
Here are some simple steps and practical information to help make your stay a safe and enjoyable one.
1 Police assistance is available 24-hours-a-day in Australia. You can approach police officers in the street or walk into a police station.
2 For life-threatening emergencies (police, fire and ambulance), call 000 and request an interpreter if you need one. 000 is a free call.
3 In Australia, drive on the left. Seat belts must be worn by the driver and passengers at all times.
4 Take care when crossing roads – look left, right and left again for cars, trams, cyclists and other pedestrians.
5 Always validate your ticket when travelling on public transport – trains, trams and buses.
6 When travelling on public transport, sit in the carriage closest to the driver or with other passengers, especially at night.
7 Keep your wallet, bag, mobile phone and other personal belongings secure at all times.
8 When withdrawing money at an autobank, put your money in your bag before walking away.
9 If you’re approached by a person asking for money, it is your choice to donate money or to say no and walk away.
10 The legal drinking age in Australia is 18 years and over. Drinking alcohol in public places is not permitted in Melbourne’s central activity district at any time.