Verbal abuse and intimidation by beggars is uncommon but by no means unknown. Although scams are rare in Melbourne, be wary of real estate agents especially if you have newly arrived and plan to stay only for the short term.
There have been many cases of real estate agents preying upon overseas students in particular. Common scams include charging tenants for costs that don't exist such as charges for 'advertising' when tenants move out and deducting costs for non-existent reparations and cleaning from the bond.
Be sure to consult the Tenants Union of Victoria and know your rights when you are charged for anything and move in and out. Take extreme care when crossing tram tracks in and around Melbourne. Trams tend run very fast in Melbourne to avoid disruption with the traffic. There have been recent cases of pedestrians being hit by trams, which can cause life-threatening injuries or even instant death.
Even if a tram has passed, look on the other side in case there is another tram approaching, as trams often run practically nose-to-tail, especially in Elizabeth Street. Intensive solicitation of pedestrians by corporations and activist groups 'chuggers' has become common in the city. Many resort to intrusive tactics such as blocking your path or occupying all four corners of a street intersection. They are not after a one-off donation, but to sign you up to a regular contribution plan from your credit card or bank account from which they receive a substantial percentage.
The infamous Melbourne gangland war that claimed many lives is now over and despite anything you see on the media having to do with it, violent criminal occurrences are very rare and isolated. As long you are not involved with Melbourne's underworld, you do not have anything to worry about. Create account now! Toggle navigation Toggle User.
