Our border is in Melbourne ?
Crikey paywall
On-platform matters. The Australian Border Force, Australia's newest security agency, is ostensibly all about protecting Australia's borders -- boats, customs, immigration. But now they've found a new way to keep our borders secure -- by patrolling the streets of Melbourne this weekend. In a release this morning, the ABF said that Operation Fortitude would join Metro Trains, Yarra Trams, the Sheriff's Office and the Taxi Services Commission to "support the best interests of Melbournians, targeting everything from anti-social behaviour to outstanding warrants". The release says the operation will focus on people travelling to, from and around the CBD.
ABF regional commander for Victoria and Tasmania Don Smith said: “ABF officers will be positioned at various locations around the CBD speaking with any individual we cross paths with." Good luck approaching all the Collingwood supporters who will be in the city tonight. While the release says it's aimed at anti-social behaviour, it also quotes Smith warning visa over-stayers -- “You need to be aware of the conditions of your visa; if you commit visa fraud you should know it’s only a matter of time before you’re caught out.” So now the ABF is trying to get queue jumpers and fare-evaders all at once. We asked Border Force Media what people would be targeted, what activities would take place and whose idea this whole operation was, but didn't hear back by deadline. Either way, Melburnians need their Mykis and their papers tonight.
