The Victorian Government has formally designated the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix as a major sporting event for the next five years. The order, signed by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos, ensures the race at Albert Park remains under strict state protections through to 2030.

The decision follows a request from the Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) to apply the Major Events Act 2009 to the international fixture. The move gives Victoria Police and authorised officers increased powers to manage crowds and crack down on the unauthorised use of the event's intellectual property.

According to the explanatory memorandum submitted to the Governor in Council, the order is necessary to regulate anti-social behaviour and provide safety for spectators, drivers, and officials. It also creates criminal offences for those who use event logos or images without permission or falsely suggest they are official sponsors.

Maintaining order at Albert Park

Under the new order, Part 4 of the Act will be enforced to manage the hundreds of thousands of fans expected to descend on the lakeside circuit. This section allows for the removal of disruptive individuals and establishes specific offences aimed at maintaining the smooth running of the weekend.

The move comes as two million visitors expected for Melbourne’s record March schedule prepare to fill the city's hotels and transport networks. State officials argued that the venue is uniquely suited for such a large international event due to its established boundaries and clear entry points.

Mr Dimopoulos stated he was satisfied the requirements of the Act had been met, noting the public interest in protecting the race's commercial and safety interests. He confirmed that the Chief Commissioner of Police was consulted regarding the enforcement powers granted under the order.

Protecting the brand

A significant portion of the order focuses on commercial protection. Part 3 of the Act will be applied to prevent "ambush marketing" and the sale of counterfeit merchandise. The Minister noted that commercial arrangements would likely be "adversely affected" without these legal safeguards in place.

This level of protection is standard for events of this scale, similar to how official Crab Fest parking and branding are managed at a local level to support organisers. By declaring the Grand Prix a major sporting event, the government can prosecute those who use the race’s reputation for private gain without a license.

The legal framework covers the entire event area, including land adjacent to the track that is required for the setup and management of the race. Much of this land falls under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, requiring additional consultation between government departments.

Long-term planning for the city

The five-year scope of the order provides a level of certainty for the hospitality and tourism sectors. It follows a trend of securing major fixtures well in advance, much like how Melbourne Victory signs elite coaching deal arrangements to bolster long-term athletic development.

Government figures show the event is considered a major international event that requires specialized legislative support. The Victorian Parliament records show the order will take effect immediately upon its publication in the Government Gazette.

While a regulatory impact statement was not required for this specific instrument, the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions has overseen the administrative process. The focus now shifts to the 2026 race, which will be the first under this new five-year legal standing.

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation will continue to work with Victoria Police to finalise security and crowd management plans for the upcoming season. The next race at Albert Park is scheduled for March 2026.