By Broede Carmody and Benjamin Preiss
Premier Daniel Andrews says he takes security threats to the MCG "very seriously" amid claims the Melbourne sporting precinct needs an urgent $1 million facelift to tackle potential terrorist attacks.
Islamic State has previously singled out the MCG as a potential target, while anti-terrorism police believe it is "just a matter of time" before an attack is carried out on Australian soil.
The MCG reportedly needs an urgent $1 million facelift to tackle potential terrorist attacks.Credit: Paul Rovere
The MCG regularly draws large crowds and shares nearby parkland and foot bridges with other sports venues, leading security experts to warn the stadium is vulnerable to potential terror threats.
On Sunday, Mr Andrews said he was in regular contact with Victoria Police about security concerns and also had recent conversations with MCC chief executive Stephen Gough.
Premier Daniel Andrews says the government will have more to say on MCG security soon.Credit: Penny Stephens
"We take these matters very, very seriously," he said.
Mr Andrews said there were a number of "exciting proposals" on the way, some relating to security and crowds.
"We've got a lot of exciting proposals on the table and we're working through those in a careful and diligent way," he said.
However, Melbourne Cricket Club spokesman Shane Brown said the proposed infrastructure boost was to reduce the likelihood of pedestrians getting hit by cars when large crowds spilled onto nearby roads and bridges.
"Several months ago, we made a submission to Infrastructure Victoria that, if adopted, would alleviate congestion at Richmond train station after MCG events," he said.
"In addition to enhancing safety and solving existing traffic issues, this would also provide flexibility in addressing potential future security needs."
The MCC and state government will meet this week to discuss new infrastructure that would improve foot traffic around the MCG.
Earlier this year it was revealed almost 200 pedestrians illegally crossed the intersection near the Swan Street bridge during a single peak period.
A fence was erected around the MCG in the wake of the 2015 terror attacks in Paris, but the temporary security measure will not be returning for the AFL's 2016/17 season.