Security has been significantly tightened for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide following the deadly terror attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, with authorities stressing heightened vigilance to ensure player and public safety.
Authorities have confirmed additional security measures will be in place at Adelaide Oval for the third Ashes Test between Australia and England, which begins on December 17. The decision follows the devastating shooting at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, where 16 people were killed in what officials described as a terror attack.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas addressed the media in Adelaide on Monday, a day after the incident.
Adelaide Oval placed under heightened alert
Malinauskas said South Australian Police were already in close contact with Adelaide Oval management. He noted that while risk assessments are standard for major events, the Sydney attack has prompted additional security protocols.
“This is done only as a precautionary measure,” Malinauskas said, adding that authorities are operating with a “heightened sense of alertness” for the time being.
South Australian Police Commissioner Grant Stevens confirmed that officers from the Security Response Section (SRS) will be deployed in and around Adelaide Oval during the Test match.
The SRS consists of specially trained officers who wear ballistic vests and carry rifles, along with pistols, tasers, pepper spray, batons, helmets and radios. The unit was created to provide enhanced protection at large public events and crowded venues.
No specific threat, but precautions in place
Commissioner Stevens stressed there was no intelligence indicating an increased threat level at the Ashes Test or any other South Australian event. However, he said police would apply diligence to ensure fans could attend with confidence.
“There’s a balance between concern and preparedness,” Stevens said, explaining that SRS officers are trained to respond effectively should an incident occur.
Authorities confirmed extra security checkpoints and a higher police presence will be established around Adelaide Oval and surrounding areas of North Adelaide. These measures will also extend to crowd management to ensure spectator safety.
Officials emphasized that fans will still be able to enjoy a well-managed and secure sporting event.
Support expressed for Jewish community
Premier Malinauskas offered unqualified support to Australia’s Jewish community, acknowledging the heightened anxiety caused by the antisemitic nature of the Bondi Beach attack.
“We stand with them,” he said. “We pray for them and with them, and the South Australian Government will do everything possible to support Jewish community members.”
Commissioner Stevens said leaders of the South Australian Jewish community had advised members not to attend specific Jewish locations on Monday as a precaution.
Police are working closely with community leaders to assess risks and ensure appropriate protection for locations of concern.
Cricket Australia and the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a joint statement expressing horror over the attack.
“All of our thoughts are with the victims, their families, the Jewish community and the people of Australia,” the statement said. “We stand with you.”
Tributes planned at Adelaide Oval
Flags on the Adelaide Oval scoreboard were flown at half-mast on Monday. A tribute is expected to take place before play begins on Wednesday, marking the start of the third Test.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan said the match should go ahead despite the sombre mood, stressing that sport should not yield to terrorism.
“I think it’s important in life that we don’t back down to terrorism,” Vaughan said. “You’ve got to carry on and show your support for everyone affected.”
Australia currently hold a 2-0 lead in the Ashes series heading into the third Test. Security measures will also apply to protect the England team, match officials, and spectators throughout the fixture.
