More police will be at the AFL finals and other major Victorian events following the lift in Australia’s terrorism alert level.

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Ken Lay says a heightened police presence will be in place at major events, including the AFL grand final and the spring racing carnival.

It will begin with Friday night’s AFL semi-final between Geelong and North Melbourne at the MCG.

Mr Lay said police spoke with the AFL and Melbourne Cricket Club after the alert level was raised from medium to high and the police presence at the MCG will be increased.

“People going to the game will definitely see more police,” Mr Lay told reporters on Friday.

“This is really just about public reassurance and giving that very high visibility.”

Victoria Police will meet throughout the week with the AFL to decide how the remainder of the finals series is policed.

Mr Lay said Victorians should expect longer lines at events as security efforts were raised.

Premier Denis Napthine said Victorians should go about their business in a normal way.

“Victorians can have every confidence in Victoria Police and state authorities to make sure we can do everything we can to protect and maintain the safety of our community,” Dr Napthine said.

Mr Lay said there would be increased security at some government and non-government buildings.

He said people should be on the lookout for abandoned vehicles near public buildings or unusual videoing or photography of energy installations and diplomatic buildings.