Victoria Police have revoked the declaration of Melbourne’s CBD and nearby areas as a designated area earlier than planned. This means police cannot perform warrantless searches in these zones after 11.59pm on Friday, January 9, 2026. Originally, the order was to last until 11.59pm on May 29, 2026. The police updated their website on Friday morning but did not explain the reason for the change. An urgent federal court hearing will start on Monday to challenge the declaration. The case is brought by Invasion Day rally organiser Tarneen Onus Browne and environmental activist Benny Zable. Legal and human rights groups opposed the six-month declaration because it allowed police and protective services officers (PSOs) to stop and search anyone without a warrant or reasonable cause. The designated area covered Melbourne’s CBD, Docklands, Southbank, the sporting and entertainment district, and parts of East Melbourne and South Melbourne. Searches could include electronic wand scans, pat-downs, and asking people to remove outer clothes, face coverings, or empty bags and pockets. Vehicles were also subject to search. It was illegal to obstruct officers or refuse to leave the zone if asked. In November, Victoria Police declared multiple city locations as a designated area until May 29, 2026. Inner Melbourne Community Legal called this a “vast overreach” due to the large area and long time frame. Previously, The Guardian reported that Victoria Police admitted to the state’s anti-corruption watchdog that some searches done between 2017 and 2025 did not comply with laws. Victoria Police confirmed ending the planned six-month weapons search declaration early. A spokesperson said, “All searches and seizures conducted under the declaration between 30 November 2025 and 9 January 2026 remain valid.” They also stated police might create a new declaration with different timing and areas. Police said, “Victoria police continues to make use of weapons search declarations to keep the public safe, with several made in just the last few weeks.” They also promised a strong police presence in Melbourne’s CBD through regular operations.