What projected growth means for site security
As Australia and New Zealand continue to invest heavily in leisure infrastructure, the importance of site security for entertainment venues cannot be overstated. From stadiums and arenas to open-air venues and convention centres, these entertainment spaces host thousands of visitors for sports, concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. While this expansion is exciting for fans and local economies, it brings new security challenges that demand a proactive and future-proof approach.
The Rise of Entertainment Venues in Australia
Entertainment venues in Australia include large-scale stadiums such as those used for AFL, NRL, and cricket, as well as arenas, community sports grounds, and exhibition centres. These locations are critical to the cultural and economic landscape, often hosting national and international events. As they evolve, they bring people together but also create complex security demands.
How Busy Were Stadiums in 2024?
According to Austadiums’ Year That Was 2024, stadiums across the country experienced one of their busiest periods on record in 2024. Total attendance rose sharply, and multi-use event spaces saw constant bookings. Many venues also expanded or were upgraded to meet increasing demand. This surge in activity highlights the critical need for scalable, reliable site security for entertainment venues.
Development on the Horizon
Plans for Australia and New Zealand
Looking forward, significant development is underway. As outlined in the Austadiums Development updates and this YouTube overview, both Australia and New Zealand have committed to new venue builds, large-scale renovations, and expanding their event-hosting capabilities. With this level of investment, strong security planning is essential to protect the infrastructure and ensure safe public access.
Why Site Security for Entertainment Venues Matters
With more people attending events in larger, multi-purpose spaces, the risk landscape is evolving. Venue operators must think beyond conventional safety approaches. Today, site security for entertainment venues is about blending unobtrusive, scalable, and high-performing systems that protect people, property, and operations without affecting the visitor experience.
Key Approaches to Futureproof Venue Security
Engaging Security Early in the Planning Process
One of the most effective strategies for enhancing venue protection involves security consultants from the earliest planning stages. Gunnebo’s Situational Security approach emphasises how early engagement allows for proactive risk assessments, security integration within design, and avoidance of costly retrofits later. This mindset ensures safety measures are tailored to each venue’s layout and crowd management needs.
Perimeter Protection That Blends In
The first line of defence starts at the perimeter. Rather than installing intrusive barriers, modern solutions like security-rated bollards, gates, and street furniture provide discreet, effective protection. These systems help control vehicle access while maintaining an open and inviting environment.
Smarter Access with Entrance Control
Once visitors approach the entrance, managing foot traffic is critical. Gunnebo’s solutions include turnstiles for one-at-a-time access control and speedstiles for high-traffic flows. These systems are purpose-built to ensure only authorised entry while supporting a positive guest experience, even during peak times.
Advanced Technology Enhancing Protection
Today’s venues demand smart, data-driven security solutions. Gunnebo Australia offers various technologically advanced access solutions, such as our multi-use AFL gate, otherwise known as the BoardSec. While traditionally used in airports, we’re seeing a significant increase in their adoption across theme parks and entertainment venues. These gates seamlessly integrate with third-party ticketing systems, support high throughput, and offer an aesthetically pleasing design, ideal for managing busy front entrances efficiently.
As an addition to our physical security offering, Gunnebo Australia also provides an in-house admission and ticketing software, QuikScan, which streamlines entry through barcode and credential scanning. This technology is particularly effective at staff entrances, VIP areas, and high-security zones, delivering fast, reliable, and automated control.
A Real-World Success: Manuka Oval
An example of thoughtful, integrated security is found at Manuka Oval in Canberra. Here, Gunnebo implemented stylish street furniture as part of the venue’s perimeter protection strategy. This approach maintained the visual appeal of the surroundings while offering physical safety for pedestrians and crowds. It shows how site security for entertainment venues can be discreet yet highly effective.
Securing the Future of Entertainment Venues
With attendance surging and development continuing across Australia and New Zealand, now is the time for operators to prioritise site security for entertainment venues. From early-stage planning to advanced access control and technology, partnering with experienced providers like Gunnebo ensures your venue remains safe, accessible, and future-ready for future events.
