Security Amped Up At Australian And NZ Shows Following Paris Attacks

Following on from the terrible attacks in Paris, Australian and New Zealand promoters are ramping up security for concerts with backpacks and large bags being banned from upcoming Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran shows.

Frontier Touring, who is touring both artists have said that they “continue to take security measures at concert events extremely seriously” and that “appropriate measures at all events are undertaken with consideration of the act, the venue and the circumstances at the time.”

They’re not the only company taking extra precautions though, speaking to The Music Network, Michael Chugg of Chugg Entertainment confirmed he would be “looking to be more vigilant with bag searches” and will “look to venues to provide metal detectors.” Pat down searches will also be used on patrons wearing bulky clothes TMN reported.

“We will discuss with venues plans they will surely be implementing,” Chugg said, adding that “CCTV is a must for all venues if they have not already to in place,” also suggesting he would seek recommendations from the police.

Live Nation Australia’s President Michael Coppel has also said that they “are in active liaison with all our venue partners to review their security arrangements for upcoming events, as I assume all the major promoters are in relation to their upcoming events.”

This follows a statement issues last week by Live Nation’s US parent which read:

“The safety and security of our shows, fans and venues continues to be our highest priority. Due to the recent events in Paris and in an abundance of caution we have implemented heightened security procedures globally. However, because of the sensitive nature of these protocols, we cannot elaborate further on the specific details.”

With both companies fielding multiple tours over the coming months with Live Nation touring Hermitude this week, and Chris Cornell, The Amity Affliction & A Day To Remember, Yelawolf, while Chugg Entertainment has Elton John in December and CHVRCHES, Funeral For A Friend and Between The Buried & Me in February, there is no word on specific restrictions for any of these shows.

Similarly there has yet to be any word on whether Frontier Touring’s ban on backpacks and large bags will extend to their subsequent tours with Sam Smith, Bully and John “Whispering Jack” Farnham.

We’ll keep you updated as more information arrives.

Gallery: Ed Sheeran – Brisbane, Riverstage 20/03/15 / Photos by Rebecca Reid