The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and National Retail Association (NRA) say the Victorian Government's decision to ban the sale of machetes is an important response to the horrifying events at Northland shopping centre last night, but broader reforms are urgently needed.
"Data shows that criminals are increasingly using knives and machetes as an intimidation tactic," says ARA CEO Chris Rodwell. "We applaud the government's swift action to bring forward some previously proposed reforms. As last night's events showed, without quick action from government, we are risking the safety and wellbeing of retail workers and customers."
Data recently released by retail crime intelligence software company Auror revealed that knives and blades accounted for over 50 per cent of all weapon-related incidents in retail settings last year. Further, their use has increased by more than 40 percent in the past year.
The ARA and NRA are advocating for governments to implement proven measures that improve retail worker safety - including the introduction of strengthened police search powers to remove knives and dangerous weapons from our streets, using the Queensland Jack's Knife legislation as a model.
The ARA has previously welcomed the Victorian Government's plans to introduce legislation to implement tougher penalties for people who assault or abuse retail workers. The landmark reforms, which should be introduced to Parliament this year, will see Victoria join South Australia, New South Wales, Northern Territory and Western Australia, in stepping up legislation to respond to the growing prevalence of customer aggression and assaults.
"This is a widespread issue affecting the entire sector, causing significant emotional and financial harm and, in some tragic cases, physical harm," Mr Rodwell says.
"We need governments to be proactive in their response to violent crime, especially when lives are in danger. Businesses can't continue to combat the impacts of growing retail crime on their own. Retailers across Australia are counting on states and territories to work in lock step with one another to reduce these incidents which are having an enormous impact on worker wellbeing."
"Retail workers in Victoria are unfortunately experiencing increased incidents of retail violence. Victoria Police has heard our concerns and acted swiftly to target these offenders. No one should have to go to work afraid for their safety. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many in the sector."
