New Designated Zones Improve Safety for Online Sales Exchanges
Victoria Police has introduced 35 Safer Exchange Sites outside 24-hour police stations across the state, offering a secure option for buyers and sellers to meet when conducting online marketplace transactions. These designated sites feature clear signage, CCTV, and lighting, giving people an alternative to meeting strangers in potentially unsafe areas like homes, parks, or dark carparks.
24-hour police stations with Safer Exchange Sites

This initiative follows a successful trial in Melbourne’s northeast in 2022, where thefts and robberies linked to online sales decreased. Originally developed to address a rise in robberies, thefts, and assaults tied to online trading before COVID lockdowns, the Safer Exchange Sites provide a proactive approach to ensuring public safety as online sales continue to grow.
According to Commander Tim Tully, while incidents remain low, the popularity of online marketplaces prompted police to establish these safer options. He advises people to remain cautious by meeting in well-monitored areas, ideally during daylight hours, and bringing a companion for added safety.
Source police.vic.gov.au