The National Retail Association (NRA) is currently working with unions and universities to tackle sexual harassment in retail.
The Respect@Work Council Forum was held yesterday, bringing together key government regulators and policy makers responsible for sexual harassment policies and complaints to improve policies.
NRA CEO Dominique Lamb said the organisation believes that workplace safety should be the topmost priority for business owners.
"Statistically people working in retail are more vulnerable to sexual harassment in the workplace given the large proportion of youth and women that take up the sector.
"Given the current labour shortage crisis, it is more essential than ever for employers and policy makers to help create an environment where employees in the retail sector feel safe and protected so that they can thrive in their roles.
"With sexual harassment permeating the retail sector, the NRA is currently working with SDA and the University of New South Wales on how to best help businesses create a safe and transparent workplace."