Overview
- The Victorian government, which intervened Thursday after a wave of criticism from fans and Football Australia, restored World Cup screenings at Melbourne’s Federation Square.
- Premier Jacinta Allan said police and private security will staff the site under a zero-tolerance approach to flares, projectiles, and other antisocial behavior.
- Melbourne Arts Precinct had scrapped the broadcasts this week, citing injuries and saying staff collected more than 100 flares and fireworks after the last Socceroos screening.
- Management also argued the open plaza’s many entry points make stadium-style bag checks and searches impractical, which heightens the risk during large crowds.
- The state will plan additional live sites to spread demand during fan-friendly kickoff times, a move that could reduce crowding and make the main square easier to manage.