Victoria Police host forum aimed at combating terrorism

Counter-terrorism experts from around the world are in Melbourne for a three-day forum aimed at combatting and deterring attacks.

Deputy Commissioner Specialist Operations Wendy Steendam said the group will "reassess existing trends" and discuss past, present and future actions to inform their understanding of local, national and global threats.

“The threat of terrorism and violent extremists has no bounds and that is how we have to police this ever emerging and complex issue, DC Steendam said.

“The forum removes our physical state, territory and international borders which I have no doubt will help create new and strengthen existing relationships in our united fight against terror.”

As well as NSW and Queensland representatives, the UK's Metropolitan Police, the recently retired chief of police from Edmonton in Canada and one of the victims of the Lindt cafe siege will attend, as well as a representative of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.

This is the second time the conference will be held in Melbourne.

The forum is taking place a little more than a month after beloved Melbourne café owner Sisto Malaspina was fatally stabbed to death in an attack in Melbourne’s CBD.