The Tasmanian Government is set to introduce Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs), with retailers saying this is a critical step forward in protecting workers and customers from repeat offenders of retail crime.
Attorney-General Guy Barnett said the proposed scheme will enable businesses to apply to a court or tribunal for an order against an individual who has engaged in personal violence, expanding from existing tools such as trespass notices and police move-on powers.
"Community safety is front and centre for our Government," Barnett said. "We know that incidents of aggressive and intimidating behaviour towards workers – especially in retail, hospitality and service environments – are a significant and growing concern. We are taking strong action to address this head on."
This comes as recorded retail crime remains elevated, with 56 per cent of total robberies occurring in retail locations, according to Tasmania Police statistics for the 2024-2025 period. Meanwhile, 10 per cent of all assaults occurred at a retail location.
Barnett said he had met with a wide range of businesses and stakeholder groups to discuss the best way forward, and that the proposed scheme will apply to all ages.
"Our focus is on ensuring any scheme introduced is balanced, effective, and works in practice for the employers and workers it is designed to protect," he said.
A first stage of public consultation is now underway, with the Government seeking feedback from employers, workers, industry groups and the wider community to help shape the design of the scheme. Draft legislation is expected to be released for further public comment later in 2026.
Australian Retail Council CEO Chris Rodwell said the announcement was an important milestone for Tasmania's retail workers, and called on other jurisdictions to follow suit.
"Retail workers and customers deserve to feel safe in a store. Unfortunately, for too many, that is not the reality," Rodwell said. "Every day, retail workers across Australia are subjected to threats, violence and intimidation. They are abused, spat on, kicked, punched and threatened while serving their communities. It has to stop."
Rodwell said WPOs are particularly important because they target the repeat offenders responsible for a disproportionate share of harm.
"Nationally, the top 10 per cent of offenders account for around 60 per cent of retail crime incidents. Unfortunately, these are often repeat offenders who continually target the same workplaces and workers. That's why Workplace Protection Orders are so important — they help break that cycle and prevent harm before it occurs," he said.
Rodwell said Tasmania's move reflected a growing national trend, and urged remaining states and territories to act.
"Retail crime is a national issue requiring a national response. We encourage the states and territories yet to introduce Workplace Protection Orders to get on with the job. Workplace Protection Orders must become a standard across the country," he said.
Bunnings managing director Mike Schneider weighed in, describing escalating retail crime as "a safety crisis”. He said the statistics represented real people being put in harm's way.
"The safety of our team and customers is our number one priority, and that's why we've been calling for urgent action to protect retail workers, including the introduction of workplace protection orders," Schneider said. "We welcome today's announcement which reflects the seriousness of the safety challenges facing retail workers across the state."
Woolworths' head of acts of violence & aggression Sarah Faorlin said no retail worker should have to face abuse, threats or violence in their workplace.
"Our team members are mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, many in their first job. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect them and support measures that help keep retail workers safe," Faorlin said.
"We thank the Tasmanian Government for working with Woolworths and industry to strengthen protections for frontline workers. These reforms send a clear message that violence and aggression against retail workers will not be tolerated."