Melbourne Stadium To Ban Parking Over Terror Fears

Australia's iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is set to ban cars from parking at the venue for major events in an effort to minimise security risks. 

In a statement posted to the MCG website, the move comes under a new plan by the stadium's board which is designed to reduce the likelihood of a a large crowd being targeted by a vehicle attack at the 100,000-plus capacity venue.

"Ongoing events both around the world and closer to home clearly demonstrate that we need to minimise the risk of interactions between vehicles and pedestrians, especially in crowded places such as outside the MCG," chief executive Stuart Fox said.

"The safety of all MCG visitors is our number one priority, and this update to car parking availability in Yarra Park is a natural progression of the measures that have been implemented both at the MCG and other venues in recent years.

"Finding a balance between keeping our patrons safe and providing them with a fantastic event experience is a difficult task. We understand that some patrons will be impacted by this decision and we have made arrangements to cater for as many vehicles as possible, in particular for the mobility impaired.

"Our strong advice to footy fans is to take public transport to the MCG if possible, or find alternative parking in the CBD and surrounding areas."

The parking ban was recently tested during the fourth Ashes test last December.

While motorists will be able to park at the venue for smaller events, authorities have confirmed additional public transport services will be put in place for large events, including the opening 2018 AFL season match between Richmond and Carlton on 22 March.

However, a limited number of spaces will be available for disability permit holders, emergency services personnel, accredited media and authorised passholders.

A number of big name acts have performed at the MCG over the years, including Michael Jackson, David Bowie, Madonna and The Rolling Stones. 

Most recently, Guns N' Roses performed at the venue in February last year which attracted 73,756 people; the second-highest concert crowd in MCG's history.