Fed Square to host World Cup screenings after premier's intervention

Melbourne fans can rejoice as Federation Square will once again become a vibrant hub for watching the men's FIFA World Cup later this year. This decision comes after a direct intervention by Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, who overturned an unpopular move by the Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation (MAPC) to ban public screenings.

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disagreed with that decision

The MAPC's initial decision, citing concerns over "antisocial" and "dangerous" behavior, including the lighting of over 100 flares at past events, had dismayed football fans and Football Australia. However, Premier Allan asserted her disagreement with the ban, emphasizing that while bad behavior from a few is a risk at any public gathering, robust security measures, including police presence, will be in place.

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There's always a risk of bad behaviour from a few dickheads at every public gathering, but police and security will be on site. There'll be zero tolerance for it.

"There'll be zero tolerance for it," Allan stated, ensuring that the government would provide the necessary support for Fed Square to host the matches. She added, "The World Cup should bring us together, not keep us apart."

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The World Cup should bring us together, not keep us apart.

This reversal is being hailed as a victory for common sense and football supporters. Patrick Clancy, chair of the Football Supporters Association Australia, welcomed the engagement with the government and MAPC management to ensure a safe and memorable experience for fans. The decision also drew criticism from Victoria's Shadow Sport Minister Brad Battin, who called the initial ban "un-Australian."

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win for commonsense and a win for football fans