UPDATE: New legislation just announced in Western Australia could lead to offenders who assault or threaten retail workers being banned from stores for up to two years. This urgent measure aims to combat the alarming rise in assaults against staff, with the new retail barring orders set to take effect shortly.
Broome Boulevard Centre manager Rahhul Gajbhiye expressed strong support for the new laws, emphasizing the critical need to protect retail staff and shoppers. “The safety of retailers, staff, and shoppers at Broome Boulevard is a priority for us,” he stated. “We welcome the new WA legislation allowing retailers to ban individuals for threatening or assaulting retail workers.”
While physical assaults at the Broome shopping centre are rare, Gajbhiye noted that threatening behavior remains a significant concern. “Instances of verbal aggression or threatening behavior do occur very frequently,” he added. The new legislation is part of a broader safety strategy aiming to create a secure shopping environment for the community.
WA Premier Roger Cook reinforced the importance of these laws, stating, “No one deserves to come to work and to be assaulted, abused, mistreated, simply because they’re doing their job.” The legislation is designed to ensure West Australians feel safe in their workplaces and communities.
The Australian Retailers Association has highlighted the urgency of this legislation, citing a 36% increase in serious incidents and a 48% rise in threatening behavior in WA since July 2023. These figures exceed national averages of 30% and 39%, respectively.
The new retail barring orders will operate similarly to restraining orders, allowing employers, union officials, or shopping centers to apply to a magistrate for a ban on individuals accused of threatening or assaulting staff. Notably, a criminal prosecution is not required for a barring order to be sought.
Attorney-General Tony Buti emphasized the court’s role in determining whether there are reasonable grounds to believe an individual may commit further violence. “If you breach the retail barring order, that is also a criminal offense,” Buti warned. Serious breaches could result in a maximum of five years imprisonment.
Magistrates will have discretion to permit access to stores for essential services, particularly in rural areas where alternatives are scarce. “There may be an arrangement made whereby essential products are delivered to their home,” Buti explained.
This legislation follows a trend as South Australia considers similar laws, while the ACT is the only jurisdiction currently with such measures in place.
The gravity of retail crime is underscored by recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, revealing retail thefts have surged to a 21-year high. Police recorded a staggering 268,666 incidents at retail locations nationally in 2024, escalating the need for swift action.
The Cook Government’s new laws could mark a turning point in ensuring safer retail environments across Western Australia. As the situation develops, stakeholders urge immediate action to uphold the safety and dignity of retail workers and customers alike.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical issue affecting communities statewide.
