Street Scams in Melbourne, Australia
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Melbourne — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nadi, Auckland, and Sydney.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
11
Total in Melbourne
How it works
Fundraisers on Bourke Street Mall and Swanston Street approach tourists and use high-pressure tactics to sign them up for regular charity direct debits, sometimes misrepresenting the amounts involved.
How it works
Professional charity fundraisers on Swanston Street use high-pressure tactics to sign tourists up for monthly direct debit donations. Some represent legitimate charities but a disproportionate amount goes to the fundraising company, not the cause.
See all scams in Melbourne
11 total warnings across all categories