MCG introduces major security upgrades ahead of AFL season opener

The MCG has undergone a major security upgrade ahead of the 2024 AFL season that will see fans required to walk through AI-powered body scanners when entering the venue.

Using technology already active at several major stadiums in the USA, the security upgrades sees the MCG become the first sporting venue the first in the southern hemisphere to use the new AI-powered full body weapon detectors.

The technology replaces the need for security personnel to use metal detectors and speeds up entry for patrons who no longer need to remove personal items such as keys, phones or bags.

The artificial intelligence scanners have been trialled at the MCG at major events in recent months, including the 2023 Boxing Day Test Taylor Swift concerts, and are now in place outside every entry gate.

Introducing the changes, Stuart Fox, Chief Executive of MCG operator the Melbourne Cricket Club, told the Herald Sun “we want everyone to have the best experience possible when they come to the 'G, so we are always looking at new innovation to help elevate this.

“We have invested in some incredible cutting-edge technology that will set a new standard for security, efficiency and convenience.”

The AI-powered screening, developed by Evolv, was first launched in 2013 and uses cameras, sensors and AI to scan for prohibited items, before sending findings to security staff.

If an item is flagged, security will do a secondary search of the patron’s bag or with a hand wand.

The touchless screening system can scan up to 3,600 people per hour, which is significantly faster than the traditional manual method.

MCG Venue and Events Manager, Josh Eltringham noted “the technology has now caught up with our expectations on how efficiently we can move 100,000 people through the gates and into the stadium.”

Emphasising that there are no health risks walking through the new gates, while any fans who have concerns can use the traditional metal detectors which are still in place at the venue, Fox added “introducing the Evolv system is a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing the safest environment possible for everyone attending events at this stadium while also enhancing their overall experience, beginning with a more efficient entry process.”

Tap-on NFC technology has also been installed at every turnstile, meaning barcodes are no longer required when entering the stadium, while a new food and drink service allows fans to purchase items without having to line up to pay using checkout-free technology.

Carlton plays Richmond in the traditional round one opener in the MCG’s first match of the 2024 AFL season tonight, with a crowd of around 85,000 expected to be in attendance.

Image: Richmond and Carlton clash at the MCG in 2021.