Retailers have welcomed the Victorian Government’s plans to implement tougher penalties through legislation for people who assault or abuse retail workers.
Late last week, Premier Jacinta Allan announced the roadmap to these new reforms, which will begin with the assembling of a Worker Protection Consultation Group to oversee the development of the legislation.
The Group will consider potential new penalties or offences, as well as how existing offences could be expanded or strengthened to protect workers against harm. It will also consider protections against stalking, harassment, or intimidation towards workers.
The aim is to introduce a Bill to Parliament by the end of 2025.
Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra welcomed the planned reforms and is now urging Queensland and Tasmania as the remaining states and the ACT to follow suit.
“All retail workers, whether they’re a casual in their first job in a department store or doing the night shift at the local convenience store, have a right to feel safe at work,” Zahra said.
“No one deserves to be intimidated or harassed or threatened with weapons, for simply doing their job. People who engage in these types of behaviours are committing a crime – it’s as simple as that.
“We’re extremely pleased that Premier Jacinta Allan has responded to our views and the Shop, Distributive Allied Employees Association (SDA), and, more importantly, the needs of retail workers by taking strong action to deter these violent incidents and keep our retail staff safe.
“We’re mindful that the majority of customers are respectful and do the right thing, but the small minority are making retail a dangerous environment to work in.”
A national survey conducted last year covering 4,600 members from the SDA found that 87 per cent of workers had experienced abuse from customers in the past year. When compared to a 2021 survey of members, the reports of physical violence against workers had increased by 56 per cent.
The ARA has previously joined forces with the SDA, calling on state and federal jurisdictions across the country to implement reforms that combat retail staff abuse.
Zahra said he hopes the Victorian Government’s plan will serve as an impetus for the few remaining jurisdictions to follow.
“This is a powerful example of the progress that can be made when all stakeholders work together with government for positive change,” Zahra said.