ARA x NRA
Retail Crime
Symposium 25
Brought to you by MA Services Group
Thursday 24 July 2025
8:00am – 5:30pm AEST
Grand Hyatt, 123 Collins Street, Melbourne
Join us for the ARA x NRA Retail Crime Symposium 25!
The ARA x NRA Retail Crime Symposium 25 returns to Melbourne on Thursday 24 July 2025.
This is an event dedicated to fighting retail crime and building safer environments for our people, businesses, and communities.
As a powerful full-day symposium, we are bringing together top leaders from retail, government, and law enforcement to confront the industry’s most urgent safety challenges head-on.
What to Expect:
Inspiring Keynotes from national and international experts at the forefront of retail crime prevention
Expert Panel Conversations featuring leading voices from retail, law enforcement and government, exploring unified strategies to address organised retail crime, cyber threats and safety challenges
Curated Activation Zones featuring interactive demonstrations from technology providers and security partners displaying cutting-edge solutions.
Real-World Case Studies providing actionable insights from retailers who are tackling crime and improving safety with success
Featured speakers include The Hon. Sonya Kilkenny MP, Attorney-General and Minister for Planning, Victoria State Government; Dr Xanthe Mallett, Associate Professor of Criminology, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research and Michael Schneider, Managing Director, Bunnings Group.
From organised crime, loss prevention and cybercrime to workplace safety and community resilience, this is your chance to dive deep into the issues, spark meaningful conversations and walk away with solutions you can apply in your organisation.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the national conversation and shape the future of retail crime prevention in Australia.
Designed for professionals involved in retail safety and crime prevention:
- Retail executives & business owners
- Loss prevention & asset protection leaders
- Store & operations managers
- Cybersecurity & IT security specialists
- Risk, legal & compliance teams
- HR & people leaders
- Security & facilities managers
- Government & law enforcement
- Industry & advocacy groups
Buy 3 and Save
Venue: International Convention Centre Sydney
Non Member: $1,975.00
Buy 8 and Save
Venue: International Convention Centre Sydney
Non Member: $1,865.00
Single Ticket
Venue: International Convention Centre Sydney
Non Member: $2,195.00
Featured Speakers
The Hon. Sonya Kilkenny MP
Attorney-General and Minister for Planning,
Victoria State Government
Michael Schneider
Managing Director
Bunnings Group Limited
Dr Xanthe Mallett
Associate Professor of Criminology
Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Central Queensland University (CQU)
Darren Bark
Deputy Chairman, Biometrics Institute and Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism
NSW Police Force
Sarah Faorlin
Head of Acts of Violence & Aggression, Woolworths
Professor Gary Mortimer
Professor of Consumer Behaviour and Retail Marketing, Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Speakers
Darren Bark
NSW Police Force
Deputy Chairman and Director, Biometrics Institute and Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism, NSW Police Force
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
David Bartlett
Safer Places Network
Founder, Safer Places Network
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
Rogan Berry
Michael Hill
Group Internal Audit and Risk Manager, Michael Hill
Rogan has a background in risk, consulting and audit. Since joining Michael Hill in 2019, Rogan has been responsible for overseeing the loss prevention and physical security operations across 289 retail stores spanning Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rogan led Michael Hill’s strategic response to a significant rise in retail crime in New Zealand.
He has seen the implementation of comprehensive security measures designed to protect staff and reduce criminal activity.
This initiative involved close collaboration with internal stakeholders, security integrators, landlords, and senior representatives from government and law enforcement agencies.
Darren Bark
NSW Police Force
Deputy Chairman and Director, Biometrics Institute and Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism, NSW Police Force
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
David Bartlett
Safer Places Network
Founder, Safer Places Network
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
Rogan Berry
Michael Hill
Group Internal Audit and Risk Manager, Michael Hill
Rogan has a background in risk, consulting and audit. Since joining Michael Hill in 2019, Rogan has been responsible for overseeing the loss prevention and physical security operations across 289 retail stores spanning Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rogan led Michael Hill’s strategic response to a significant rise in retail crime in New Zealand.
He has seen the implementation of comprehensive security measures designed to protect staff and reduce criminal activity.
This initiative involved close collaboration with internal stakeholders, security integrators, landlords, and senior representatives from government and law enforcement agencies.
Darren Bark
NSW Police Force
Deputy Chairman and Director, Biometrics Institute and Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism, NSW Police Force
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
David Bartlett
Safer Places Network
Founder, Safer Places Network
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
Rogan Berry
Michael Hill
Group Internal Audit and Risk Manager, Michael Hill
Rogan has a background in risk, consulting and audit. Since joining Michael Hill in 2019, Rogan has been responsible for overseeing the loss prevention and physical security operations across 289 retail stores spanning Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rogan led Michael Hill’s strategic response to a significant rise in retail crime in New Zealand.
He has seen the implementation of comprehensive security measures designed to protect staff and reduce criminal activity.
This initiative involved close collaboration with internal stakeholders, security integrators, landlords, and senior representatives from government and law enforcement agencies.
Darren Bark
NSW Police Force
Deputy Chairman and Director, Biometrics Institute and Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism, NSW Police Force
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
David Bartlett
Safer Places Network
Founder, Safer Places Network
Darren Bark is the Executive Director, Investigations and Counter Terrorism at the New South Wales Police Force (NSWPF) and Deputy Chairman of the Biometrics Institute. He previously held executive roles in both public and private sectors, including the Department of Justice.
At NSWPF, Darren leads identity security projects, implements Identity Matching Services (IMS), and develops strategic policy for a secure state. He also oversees the NSWPF’s death and disability scheme and negotiates workforce awards. Nationally, he contributes to identity security strategies as a member of the Identity Verification Service Advisory Board and the National Identity Security Coordination Group.
Beyond his official duties, Darren is a dedicated community advocate. He championed legislation banning Nazi symbols and actively addresses hate crimes. He also co-chairs Faith NSW, serves as Executive Advisor for the African Advocacy Council, and is a member of the NSW Government’s Faith Advisory Council.
Rogan Berry
Michael Hill
Group Internal Audit and Risk Manager, Michael Hill
Rogan has a background in risk, consulting and audit. Since joining Michael Hill in 2019, Rogan has been responsible for overseeing the loss prevention and physical security operations across 289 retail stores spanning Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rogan led Michael Hill’s strategic response to a significant rise in retail crime in New Zealand.
He has seen the implementation of comprehensive security measures designed to protect staff and reduce criminal activity.
This initiative involved close collaboration with internal stakeholders, security integrators, landlords, and senior representatives from government and law enforcement agencies.
Agenda
8:00 AM
Registration, Refreshments and Networking
8:50 AM
Session One
Retail’s impossible dilemma: Serving the community without compromising safety and security
8:55 AM
Welcome to Country
9:00 AM
Opening Remarks
Chris Rodwell, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Retailers Association and National Retail Association
9:10 AM
Keynote: Collaboration for Impact
The Hon. Sonya Kilkenny MP, Attorney-General and Minister for Planning, Victoria State Government
9:35 AM
Keynote: The Societal Impact of Retail Crime
Dr Xanthe Mallett, Associate Professor of Criminology, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Central Queensland University (CQU)
Dr Xanthe Mallett, Associate Professor of Criminology, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research, Central Queensland University (CQU)
Presenting Partner
MA Services Group is a leading Australian-owned Integrated Services Company, specialising in security, cleaning, and maintenance solutions. With a national footprint across every state and territory, we are where you need us to be—offering agile, industry-specific services that protect people, assets, and business integrity.
In the retail sector, MA Services Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering measurable results. We support some of Australia’s largest retail brands through tailored, end-to-end solutions that reduce loss, prevent crime, and enhance the customer experience. Our retail expertise includes the largest national team of Covert Officers—over 300 highly trained professionals—backed by cutting-edge technology and proactive strategies.
MA Services Group is proud to help retailers create safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environments that support both business and community.
Event Partners
MA Services Group is a leading Australian-owned Integrated Services Company, specialising in security, cleaning, and maintenance solutions. With a national footprint across every state and territory, we are where you need us to be—offering agile, industry-specific services that protect people, assets, and business integrity.
In the retail sector, MA Services Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering measurable results. We support some of Australia’s largest retail brands through tailored, end-to-end solutions that reduce loss, prevent crime, and enhance the customer experience. Our retail expertise includes the largest national team of Covert Officers—over 300 highly trained professionals—backed by cutting-edge technology and proactive strategies.
MA Services Group is proud to help retailers create safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environments that support both business and community.
MA Services Group is a leading Australian-owned Integrated Services Company, specialising in security, cleaning, and maintenance solutions. With a national footprint across every state and territory, we are where you need us to be—offering agile, industry-specific services that protect people, assets, and business integrity.
In the retail sector, MA Services Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering measurable results. We support some of Australia’s largest retail brands through tailored, end-to-end solutions that reduce loss, prevent crime, and enhance the customer experience. Our retail expertise includes the largest national team of Covert Officers—over 300 highly trained professionals—backed by cutting-edge technology and proactive strategies.
MA Services Group is proud to help retailers create safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environments that support both business and community.
MA Services Group is a leading Australian-owned Integrated Services Company, specialising in security, cleaning, and maintenance solutions. With a national footprint across every state and territory, we are where you need us to be—offering agile, industry-specific services that protect people, assets, and business integrity.
In the retail sector, MA Services Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering measurable results. We support some of Australia’s largest retail brands through tailored, end-to-end solutions that reduce loss, prevent crime, and enhance the customer experience. Our retail expertise includes the largest national team of Covert Officers—over 300 highly trained professionals—backed by cutting-edge technology and proactive strategies.
MA Services Group is proud to help retailers create safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environments that support both business and community.
MA Services Group is a leading Australian-owned Integrated Services Company, specialising in security, cleaning, and maintenance solutions. With a national footprint across every state and territory, we are where you need us to be—offering agile, industry-specific services that protect people, assets, and business integrity.
In the retail sector, MA Services Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering measurable results. We support some of Australia’s largest retail brands through tailored, end-to-end solutions that reduce loss, prevent crime, and enhance the customer experience. Our retail expertise includes the largest national team of Covert Officers—over 300 highly trained professionals—backed by cutting-edge technology and proactive strategies.
MA Services Group is proud to help retailers create safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environments that support both business and community.