Growing violence against retail and hospitality workers in Canberra has intensified community concerns over public safety. Supermarket giant Woolworths documented 150 violent incidents involving staff and customers in the past year alone, according to company reports. Venue managers report confronting individuals armed with knives, while courts are issuing orders to keep violent former patrons away. Additional reports include attempted arson and threats of sexual assault against employees.
Woolworths incidents highlight scale of problem
Woolworths recorded 150 violent incidents at its Canberra stores over the past 12 months, a figure that underscores the severity of the issue. These incidents range from verbal abuse to physical assaults, with staff frequently facing aggressive behavior from customers. The supermarket chain has implemented additional security measures, including increased patrols and training for employees to de-escalate conflicts.
Knife threats and court orders
Venue managers across the city report encountering individuals armed with knives, leading to heightened anxiety among workers. In response, courts have issued exclusion orders to prevent violent former patrons from entering premises. However, staff remain vulnerable, particularly during late-night shifts or when dealing with intoxicated individuals.
Arson and sexual assault threats
Adding to the alarm are reports of attempted arson and threats of sexual assault against employees. One incident involved a threat to set fire to a store, while another saw a worker threatened with sexual violence. These cases have prompted calls for stronger legal protections and better support for affected workers.
Community and industry response
Local business groups and unions are urging the ACT government to take action, including tougher penalties for assaults on retail and hospitality workers. Police have increased patrols in high-risk areas, but workers say more needs to be done to ensure their safety. According to a Woolworths spokesperson, “The safety of our team and customers is our top priority, and we are working closely with authorities to address this issue.”
