Australia 2019 Crime & Safety Report:

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Consulate in Melbourne, Australia.

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Australia at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The U.S. Consulate in Melbourne does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizens Services (ACS) unit cannot recommend a particular individual or establishment, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of services provided.

Review OSAC’s Australia page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

There is minimal risk from crime in Melbourne. Melbourne is generally a safe city, but is not immune from crimes commonly associated with large urban areas. Crime Statistics Agency reporting reflects that for the period of 2017-18, there were 508,597 offences recorded in the state of Victoria, a decrease of 1.6% from the previous year. This equated to approximately 7,861 offences recorded per 100,000 population. There were a total of 299,994 victim reports across the state (one victim may report multiple offences/offenders). Approximately 78% of victims (includes individuals and organizations) had principal offences related to property and or deception (e.g. arson property damage, theft, burglary, break and enter, bribery etc.); 21% were crimes against the person (e.g. assault, robbery, sexual offence, blackmail, stalking, homicide).

Non-violent theft was one of the most common crimes reported. Vehicle theft is rare. Property crimes (e.g. burglary, breaking and entering, theft) occur throughout Australia. The frequency of such crime is on par with most major U.S. metropolitan areas. Secure personal belongings appropriately. Do not leave personal items unattended in cafes and restaurants, or in plain view within motor vehicles. In restaurants or cafes, place your bag on your lap. Carry your purse and handbag close to your body.

Violent is relatively low, with fewer than 100 reported cases of armed robbery, , or sexual assault per 100,000 persons nationally. In Victoria, the majority of crimes against a person were assault offences (39,511, or 610 per 100,000); many of these are alcohol- related incidents. Exercise the same level of caution and security awareness as you would in any major city in the United States. In Victoria, there were 180 criminal homicide incidents, which include attempted murder, accessory or conspiracy to murder, manslaughter, and death caused by driving.

China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Armed robberies occasionally occur in Australia, are more prominent in cities, and are most frequently committed with knives. Criminals sometimes use firearms in the commission of crimes, but Australia has extremely restrictive firearms legislation compared to U.S. laws. Local police attribute a majority of burglaries and robberies to increased heroin and methamphetamine (ICE) use.

During the past 24 months, there have been two significant incidents involving individuals using a motor vehicle as a weapon within the Melbourne Central Business District (CBD).

Travelers should monitor the SCAM Watch website maintained by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for the latest information on how to recognize, avoid, and report scams.

Cybersecurity Issues

Cyber criminals continue to gain access to networks primarily through targeted emails and spear phishing campaigns; this is the greatest threat to cyber security in the region. The chief motivation for cyber-attacks was financial gain. This aligns with the cyber threat of most concern to the private sector, which is theft or breach of confidential information or intellectual property (IP).

There were 34,727 (property) deception offences recorded during the reporting period, a slight decrease on the previous year in Victoria. The majority of deception offences occur in retail/financial locations. The Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network (ACORN) provides information on how to recognize and avoid common forms of cybercrime, including advice for victims.

Other Areas of Concern

Outlaw motorcycle in Australia include international clubs like the Bandidos, , and Gypsyjokers, as well as local groups such as the Rebels. In general, these groups participate in drug trafficking and other organized criminal activities like the sex trade.

Gang violence receives wide media coverage in Victoria. The state government has taken steps to change laws to focus on the problem. Youth street gangs including APEX and MTS (Menace to Society) have been responsible for a number of high profile displays of violent and criminal offenses. These groups are composed predominately of members of the African community; many refer to them as “African Youth Gangs.” The Victoria Police are engaging with leaders of the local African community as a part of an African-Australian Community Task Force in an attempt to assess emerging trends and prevent the continuance of youth crimes. Recent media reporting has highlighted the overrepresentation of young persons of South Sudanese decent in aggravated burglary, serious assault, and motor vehicle theft.

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Basic safety on Australian roads is excellent. Authorities strictly enforce speed limits via an extensive system of cameras and officers. Holiday weekends typically bring a rise in roadside fatalities, as many Australians drive long distances to popular beach destinations. Drunk driving enforcement checkpoints operate randomly. For persons driving with a full license, the legal blood alcohol limit in Victoria is 0.05%, whereas those with a restricted license (learner or provisional) may not drive under any influence of alcohol.

In the event of a motor vehicle accident in Victoria, the driver should, stop and give assistance to injured persons. Each party must provide their name, address, registration (license plate) number, and vehicle owner's name/address to the other party involved in the crash. This includes the owner of the property damaged or injured person (or a person representing them). If there are injuries, mitigating factors (e.g. persons under the influence or substantial property damage), and police are not in attendance, report the crash in person to the nearest open police station.

For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s Report Driving Overseas: Best Practices.

Public Transportation Conditions

Taxis are safe, but can be difficult to hail during high-demand periods.

Public transportation is generally safe and popular. Melbourne’s public transport system includes trains, trams, buses, and taxis. In Victoria, there were 5,733 incidents recorded at public transport locations during 2017-2018. All Melbourne train stations maintain a police presence from 1800 until the last train.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

Australian international and domestic airports meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The Australian Federal Police oversee security at all international airports. Australian international and domestic airports meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards. Melbourne has two large commercial airports: Melbourne (Tullamarine) Airport (MEL) is Australia’s second busiest airport; Avalon Airport (AVV) located approximately 50 kilometers to the southwest of Melbourne, in Greater Geelong.

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Terrorism Threat

Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There is moderate risk from terrorism in Melbourne. There have been seven terrorist attacks and 15 disrupted plots in Australia since September 2014. Melbourne continues to be one of the top Australian targets. The potential return of dozens of Australian foreign fighters continues to pose a long-term risk, while homegrown extremists with basic, readily available weapons may be the greatest near-term threat. Active shooter incidents and vehicle attacks at mass gatherings continue to be of high concern to law enforcement. The majority of recent terrorism-related incidents have involved young, homegrown Australian extremists influenced and inspired online.

In response to potential threats, Australian authorities have updated the National Terrorism Threat Advisory system to inform Australians about the likelihood of a terrorist attack, and to enable authorities, businesses, and individuals to take appropriate safety and security measures. The new system includes five tiers, ranging from “Not Expected” to “Certain.” The current terrorism threat advisory level is “Probable,” signifying that while there is no information regarding a specific, credible plot, individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct a terrorist attack in Australia.

In February 2018 a female international student allegedly conducted a terrorist attack using a knife to stab her homestay landlord while he was asleep; this matter remains before the courts and the attacker has pled guilty. In November 2018, a terrorist attack occurred in the Melbourne CBD, resulting in the death of one bystander and a number of injuries. The offender drove into the CBD, attempted to set his motor vehicle (carrying a number of gas cylinders) on fire, and then used a knife to stab nearby pedestrians. Police responded and fatally shot the terrorist. These incidents followed a terrorist siege in the Melbourne suburb of Brighton in June 2017, where a terrorist took a female hostage in a serviced apartment after murdering an attendant/desk officer. Police responded and fatally shot the terrorist. Three of the responding police received injuries.

The Victoria Police, in conjunction with federal law enforcement and security agencies continue to conduct a number of investigations relating to individuals and groups suspected of engaging in, or supporting, terrorism. In December 2016, police arrested three men in connection to a suicide bombing terror plot aimed at Melbourne’s CBD landmarks; the court found them guilty of conspiring to commit a terrorist attack.

The Australian government continues to make public service advertisements requesting citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to the National Security Hotline at 1-800-123-400.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Incidents of political violence directed against the U.S. are relatively infrequent. Assorted protest actions included a sit-in within the building lobby and the display of placards. The majority of protests near U.S. diplomatic facilities continue to be peaceful. Visits by high-level U.S. dignitaries will occasionally attract various organizations to whose members protest a variety of topics.

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

Civil Unrest

There is minimal risk from civil unrest in Melbourne. Incidents of civil unrest do not often occur in Australia. Occasionally there are organized protests in and around the various government and diplomatic enclaves, however these are typically peaceful in nature. The potential for violence during protests does exist. Avoid confrontation with protestors. The Consulates occasionally experiences peaceful protests by various groups. Visits by high-level U.S. dignitaries may attract issue-motivated groups.

Religious/Ethnic Violence

There have been a number of anti-Muslim demonstrations in major Australian cities following high-profile international attacks involving ISIS. Australian policing authorities are capable of managing such events.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Australia can experience extreme weather conditions during the warmer months, creating the potential for large-scale wildfires. Bushfire season is October-May. In addition to claiming lives, bushfires can result in major property damage.

In 2009, bushfires outside of Melbourne killed 173 people, destroyed entire towns, and caused damages worth $4.4 billion AUD. A significant number of bushfires have been attributable to arsonists. Anyone planning to reside in Australia should devise a bushfire plan of action. The Victoria state government has setup a bushfire help-line at 1-800-240-667.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

Critical infrastructure is relatively stable and secure. Major attacks on critical infrastructure are rare. The most likely threat remains natural disasters (e.g., cyclones, bushfires, and flooding).

Australia’s national critical infrastructure protection arrangements are coordinated by the National Counter-Terrorism Committee (NCTC), a national body composed of representatives from the Commonwealth, State, and Territory governments. The Australian Security Intelligence Organization (ASIO) has responsibility to provide intelligence and threat assessments to relevant Commonwealth Government departments, the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and State and Territory police. Police also gather and disseminate intelligence to relevant agencies as required.

State and Territory police meet with owners/operators of critical infrastructure, in accordance with jurisdictional arrangements, to provide information on the national and localized security threat context. Police will communicate directly with owners/operators of critical infrastructure where there is an imminent and specific threat and will coordinate the operational response.

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Economic Concerns

ASIO has emphasized that the private sector is not immune from the clandestine or deceptive activity of foreign governments. ASIO works closely with private-sector organizations to counter such threats. Several economic espionage incidents have occurred, particularly those targeting the natural resource sectors. Economic espionage has occurred through cyberattacks originating from overseas countries.

Australia has strong counterfeiting and piracy legislation protecting patents, trademarks, and designs. Intellectual property owners are responsible for enforcing their own rights through private proceedings. Organizations should also ensure they do not accidentally infringe on the intellectual property of others.

Privacy Concerns

The Australian Privacy Act 1988 is similar in content to that of the U.S Privacy Act of 1974; it places strict controls on the storage and release of information. Be mindful of where you store personally identifiable information, and who has access to it. Private and public organizations must have the consent of an individual before conducting any background investigations. A failure to obtain an individual’s consent can result in serious prosecution.

Drug-related Crimes

Australia, as a first world nation, faces many of the same drug issues as the United States. Australia has an ever-growing user population, large international drug importation issues, local clandestine laboratory problems, and an increasing number of individuals arrested for drug trafficking. Cannabis is the most abused drug in Australia, followed by ecstasy, methamphetamine, and cocaine. There is an increased use of illegal prescription drugs, performance-enhancing drugs, and synthetic drugs like Kronic. Cocaine is a very popular drug among wealthy Australians. Some ecstasy pills sold in Australia contain synthetic substances instead of MDMA that can be fatal.

There were 15,369 drug related incidents (e.g. dealing, trafficking, use, possession) in Victoria over the reporting period. Drug dealing and trafficking, along with drug use and possession offences, has not increased during the past reporting year. The majority of offences (11,410) related to possession and use, with 2,931 incidents relating to dealing and trafficking.

Police Response

Police/Security Agencies

Australian police organizations are well trained and professional. They have well-equipped emergency response teams (e.g. SWAT, EOD, Negotiator) that can mobilize and respond to any incident with short notice. Triple zero (000) is the Australian equivalent to the United States 911 system, and can respond to any emergency in Australia. Callers must provide basic information such as location and services needed (e.g. fire, ambulance and/or police).

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service is the Australian Federal Government agency responsible for managing the security and integrity of the Australian border. It facilitates the movement of legitimate international travelers and goods, while protecting the safety, security, and commercial interests of Australians. For general enquiries, contact Australian customs at 1- 300-363-263.

The Victoria Police provides policing services throughout the state, with 17,000 officers. Its role is to preserve the peace, protect life and property, prevent offenses, detect and apprehend offenders, and help those in need of assistance. Victoria Police will respond to all manner of crime ranging from minor traffic infringements to homicides and counter-terrorism response.

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Direct complaints of a minor nature regarding the Victoria Police to the nearest police station Commander. Direct more serious matters to the Victoria Police website’s “Compliments and Complaints” feature, or through the Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC).

Crime Victim Assistance

The Victoria Department of Justice and Regulation operates services for victims of crime. Its website provides full details on how to manage the effects of crime; its helpline is available from 0800-2300 daily at 1-800-819-817. Victoria Police can provide guidance to individuals seeking crime victim assistance, providing details of centers and services relating to areas such as family violence, sexual offenses, and child abuse cases. Agencies available to assist include the Sexual Assault Crisis line (for adults), Gatehouse Centre for Assessment and Treatment of Child Abuse, Women’s Domestic Violence Crisis Service, and the Men’s Referral Service.

Medical Emergencies

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

Australia has a high level of professional emergency medical services. By dialing 000, any person can obtain emergency medical assistance throughout most of Australia. Ambulance service staffed by certified emergency medical technicians is the standard throughout most of Australia. Medical evacuation (medevac) via air may be necessary in remote areas as well as urban areas depending on the nature of the injury. Victoria has a number of major hospitals; the two major hospitals in Melbourne are:

The Alfred Hospital 55 Commercial Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004 +61 3 9076 2000 (Switchboard); + 61 3 9276 3405 (Emergency)

Royal Melbourne Hospital 300 Grattan St, Parkville VIC 3050 +61 3 9342 7000 (Switchboard); +61 3 9342 7666 or + 61 3 9342 7009 (Emergency)

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China 2017 OSAC Crime & Safety Report: Wuhan Air Ambulance Services

Air Ambulance Victoria operates four ambulance airplanes and can reach most of Victoria within one hour. These aircraft are mainly for transporting patients from rural towns to the major hospitals in Melbourne. Air Ambulance Victoria operates five air ambulance helicopters. The ambulance helicopters are an emergency response to critical medical situations, providing an advanced level of care, quick attendance, and fast transport to major hospitals.

Insurance Guidance

Australia has a strong insurance culture, with citizens typically buying home insurance, motor vehicle insurance, and medical travel insurance. The primary body for the insurance industry is the Insurance Council of Australia. Australia’s Medicare system provides a subsidized health fund for Australian citizens and residents. Travelers are not covered; obtain full travelers insurance.

Compulsory third-party insurance may cover persons injured in a motor vehicle accident in some states of Australia. This insurance covers compensation for injuries only, and does not include damage to property or medical costs. If an accident involving an unlicensed vehicle occurs, the driver and owner may be financially liable for the damages paid to the injured person.

Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for Australia.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate Location and Contact Information

Consulate Address and Hours of Operation:

United State Consulate General Melbourne, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne Victoria, 3004 Monday to Friday: 0800-1700 (excluding Australian and U.S. holidays)

Consulate Contact Numbers:

Regional Security Officer (): 61-02-6214-5897 Consulate Operator: 61-03-9526-5900 Consular Affairs: 61-03-9526-5988 Nearby Posts: Embassy Canberra, Consulate Perth, Consulate

Additional Resource: Australia Country Information Sheet

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