The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) welcome the passage of Victoria’s new worker-protection laws this week, which introduce tougher penalties for abuse, threats and assaults against retail, fast food, hospitality and transport workers.
Under new laws, which will be in effect before Christmas, a serious indictable offence now applies to anyone who assaults or threatens a retail, fast food, hospitality or transport worker — carrying penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment.
ARA CEO Chris Rodwell said the long-awaited legislation represents a vital step in confronting Victoria’s worsening retail crime emergency — but warned further action is urgently needed to protect frontline teams and restore community safety.
“Retail crime is at crisis levels in Victoria, leaving many retailers at breaking point. Retailers have been calling for action for two years and this marks a significant step forward. Tougher penalties are a proven measure that will help protect the thousands of Victorian workers who face abuse and violence everyday simply for serving their communities. We welcome the Government’s action before Christmas – it’s clear recognition of the seriousness of the retail crime crisis,” he said.
Victoria remains the national hot spot for retail crime and violence, accounting for 35% of total incidents – 60% per cent more incidents than any other state. Victoria Police recorded 82,152 incidents in 2024 – a 27.6% increase. For the 12 months to June 2025, there were 99,114 incidents – a further 20% increase. Threatening events surged 52% and serious incidents rose 38%, placing Victoria as the hardest-hit state.
The ARA and the NRA renewed calls for the Victorian Government to move swiftly on its commitment to introduce Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs).
“WPOs must now be the next step. South Australia and the ACT have successfully introduced these protections, giving Victoria proven models to build from. This week also saw Western Australia introduce a similar bill. With a commitment to April 2026 by the Victorian Government, it’s critical this timeline stays on track,” said Mr Rodwell.
The Associations also reinforced the call for a permanent statewide retail crime taskforce to coordinate intelligence, policing responses, prosecutions and industry collaboration.
“We need to build on momentum. The size and complexity of this problem requires a permanent, best-practice taskforce bringing together Victoria Police, government, unions and industry. This permanent reinforcement is helping turn the tide in South Australia, New South Wales and the ACT,” said Mr Rodwell.
“Victorian workers deserve to feel safe at work. Retailers are ready to partner with Government on the next phase of reform to deliver a safer environment for workers, customers and local communities,” he said.
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About us: The ARA and NRA, soon to amalgamate into the Australian Retail Council (ARC) on 1 February 2026, represents a $444 billion sector that employs 1.4 million Australians across metropolitan, regional, and remote communities – making retail the largest private sector employer in the country and a significant contributor to the Australian economy. Our memberships span the full spectrum of Australian retail, from family-owned small and independent
