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ARC Home Media Retailers welcome NSW Government reforms to reduce knife crimes
Media release

Retailers welcome NSW Government reforms to reduce knife crimes

Peak retail industry body, Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has welcomed the NSW Government’s package of reforms around knife laws announced today.

ARA CEO Paul Zahra said the robust stance on knife laws will help improve protection for retail workers and customers.

“In our communities, retail precincts aren’t just places to shop—they’re vital hubs for socialising, dining, and employment. Everyone deserves to feel safe in these spaces,” he said.

“We appreciate the continued focus by the NSW Government on this important area of public safety with this latest package of proposed reforms. We are committed to collaborating with the NSW Government to establish clear and practical regulations regarding the sale of knives to minors.

“Consistency and effectiveness are key and we’re ready to ensure our members are aligned with these standards. We would also like to see better alignment across states and territories around retail crime legislation,” said Mr Zahra.

Read the full NSW Government announcement here.

ENDS

Media Enquiries:
M 0434 381 670   E media@retail.org.au

About us: Australian Retail Council (ARC) 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 membership spans the full spectrum of Australian retail, from family-owned small and independent retailers that make up 95% of our membership, through to our largest national and international retailers that employ thousands of Australians and support both metropolitan and regional communities every day.