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Victoria Police Revokes Controversial Warrantless Search Powers Early

1/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Victoria Police revoked the Melbourne CBD designation for warrantless searches, effective January 9, 2026, four months earlier than planned.
Legal and human rights groups criticized the designation for privacy concerns.
Only 1% of searches yielded illicit items.
Inner Melbourne Community Legal described the designation as a "vast overreach."
Police said a new declaration could be considered for future use.

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Story summary

Victoria Police revoked the Melbourne CBD designation for warrantless searches, effective January 9, 2026, four months earlier than planned.
Legal and human rights groups criticized the designation for privacy concerns.
Only 1% of searches yielded illicit items.
Inner Melbourne Community Legal described the designation as a "vast overreach."
Police said a new declaration could be considered for future use.