The Cook Government in Western Australia is taking a hardline stance against retail violence, announcing new legislation that will see offenders banned from shops for up to two years for assaulting or threatening staff.
New Powers to Protect Retail Workers
Under a new bill set to be introduced to State Parliament, retail barring orders will be created to help curb the alarming rise in assaults and antisocial behaviour targeting workers. Premier Roger Cook stated the laws are a direct response to ensure people are safe at their jobs.
"No-one deserves to come to work and to be assaulted, abused, or mistreated, simply because they’re doing their job," Mr Cook said. He explained the legislation would allow for individuals to be excluded from a retail environment if a complaint against them is substantiated.
How the Retail Banning Orders Will Work
The proposed system will function as a civil matter, similar to a restraining order. An employer, union official, or shopping centre management can apply to a magistrate to have a person banned from their premises.
Critically, a criminal prosecution does not need to be underway for an application to be made. Attorney General Tony Buti clarified it would be up to the court to decide if there are reasonable grounds to believe the person will commit further violence.
"If you breach the retail barring order, that is also a criminal offence, and for serious and persistent breaches... that can lead to a maximum five years’ imprisonment," Mr Buti warned. Magistrates will have discretion to allow access for essential services, especially in regional areas with limited options.
A Response to Soaring Retail Crime Rates
The push for these laws follows urgent pleas from major retailers to fast-track legislation amid skyrocketing theft and violence. The latest data paints a grim picture of the situation in WA.
According to the Australian Retailers Association, since July last year, serious incidents in WA increased by 36% and threatening behaviour jumped by 48%. Both rates exceed the national averages of 30% and 39%, respectively.
Nationally, the problem is severe. Australian Bureau of Statistics figures reveal retail thefts hit a 21-year high in 2024, with police recording 268,666 incidents at retail locations across the country.
Western Australia will become only the second jurisdiction in the nation to enact such legislation, following the Australian Capital Territory. South Australia is also considering similar laws. This move marks a significant shift towards stronger, proactive measures to protect frontline retail staff from violence and abuse.
