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Terrorism Threat Level
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National Security Hotline

1800 123 400

If it doesn't add up, speak up.​​

Crowded places

Crowded Places are attractive terrorist targets. Learn what you need to do as a business to protect your site and what you can do as an individual to keep yourself safe.

​​​​​​​​​​​IED attacks

Explosives are a popular terrorist weapon. This is because they can cause mass casualties / fatalities, disruption and media attention.

Owners and operators must know how to protect their space from this type of attack. This includes understanding the impact of a threat of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks on their site.

Terrorists can send IEDs through the post; transport them on their body, in baggage, or in a vehicle.

Characteristics ​of IED attacks

IED's are often:

  • low cost
  • simple to construct
  • made of materials that are easily accessible.

IED’s can vary in:

  • shape
  • size
  • methods to set off the explosion
  • disguise.

The two main terrorist tactics for IED attacks are:

  • Person Borne Improvised Explosive Device (PBIED): An improvised explosive device worn, carried or housed by a person, willingly or unwillingly.
  • Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED): An improvised explosive device delivered by or concealed in a vehicle.

Protecting your crowded place​

Owners and operators can prevent and prepare their sites to prevent IED attacks.

It is recommend these security measures be in place:

  • training staff on security awareness and procedures
  • having inspection procedures for suspicious packages, people and vehicles
  • exercise security plans regularly. Staff must understand their priority actions. They need to be able to perform these actions in a high-stress environment.

Building design

Changing the design of high-risk areas can reduce the chances of an attack initiated through weapons, vehicles, explosives and or Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) attacks​. It can also reduce the impact of an attack.

Consider the following when designing your site:​

  • choice of facades
  • interior walls
  • window glazing
  • stand-off distances
  • preventing progressive collapse
  • built and natural environment barriers.

During an attack

If an attack occurs, owners and operators of crowded and public places should prioritise these activities.​