The Australian Retail Council (ARC) says retail workers remain exposed to rising levels of violence and theft, as Victoria fails to meet the previously announced timeframe of April to introduce workplace protection order (WPO) legislation. It is now clear the legislation will not be introduced to Parliament this month, leaving a critical gap in protections for frontline retail workers.
ARC CEO Chris Rodwell said the delay comes at a time when retail crime in Victoria continues to worsen, with the latest data showing escalating incidents of theft, abuse and violence across the state.
“Retail workers are facing unacceptable levels of abuse and violence every day, and they do not have the protections they need to stay safe at work,” Mr Rodwell said. “It is disappointing that this critical safeguard is still not in place. Retail workers cannot afford further delays.”
“Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data shows retail crime in Victoria is still rising, with theft and violence in stores and supermarkets continuing to increase across the state,” he said. “Every delay means more incidents and more harm to workers.”
Mr Rodwell said workplace protection orders are a practical and proven tool that can help prevent repeat offenders from entering retail stores and targeting retail workers.
“This is not untested policy. Effective models already exist in other jurisdictions, including South Australia. Victoria does not need to start from scratch.”
ARC is calling on the Victorian Government to urgently progress legislation and prioritise its introduction to Parliament.
“We stand ready to work with the Government to get this legislation finalised and passed as quickly as possible,” said Mr Rodwell.
In addition to WPO legislation, Mr Rodwell is also urging the Victorian Government to establish a dedicated, state-wide retail crime taskforce, consistent with approaches in New South Wales and South Australia.
“Victoria is the retail crime capital of Australia. The response needs to match the scale of the problem. A coordinated, well-resourced taskforce is essential to tackling retail crime across the state to protect workers, businesses and communities, not just in a few Melbourne shopping centres.”
Mr Rodwell said the message from retailers is clear.
“This cannot be kicked down the road any longer. The longer this is delayed, the worse the situation will become.”