People who assault retail workers in Western Australia will face up to seven years in prison under tough new legislation that will be introduced by the Cook Government.
Seven years will be the maximum penalty, or three years and a fine of $36,000. This is a lift from 18 months’ imprisonment and a fine of $18,000 under current laws.
The penalties will also cover the throwing of an object at a retail worker.
It comes after a notable increase of assaults on retail workers during the COVID-19, according to the WA government, with growing evidence that violence against retail workers continues at unacceptable levels.
A 2023 national survey by the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees' Association (SDA) of its members, which attracted 4,600 responses, revealed 87 per cent said they had experienced abuse from customers in the past year.
The reports of physical violence increased by 56 per cent when compared with the results of a 2021 survey.
"Retail workers are essential for our economy and our community,” WA state Premier Roger Cook said.
"Everyone has a right to feel safe in their workplace, but unfortunately, we've seen an increase in acts of violence against retail workers.
"My Government won't tolerate these disgraceful acts against retail workers. These laws send a strong message to violent thugs - you will be held accountable for your actions."
Attorney General John Quigley said higher penalties for assaults on retail workers will provide a stronger deterrent against deliberate acts of violence.
"These reforms will not only ensure that our justice system protects retail workers, but that community standards are met when it comes to appropriate penalties for those who commit these crimes."
Peak body, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has welcomed the reforms, adding WA will join the Northern Territory, South Australia and New South Wales in leading the way in tackling customer aggression and assaults.
ARA CEO Paul Zahra is now urging the remaining states, as well as the Australian Capital Territory to follow suit.
“All retail workers, whether they’re a casual in their first job or doing the night shift at the local convenience store, have a right to feel safe at work,” Zahra said.
“No one deserves to be spat on, threatened with weapons, intimidated or harassed for simply doing their job. People who engage in these types of behaviours are committing a crime – it’s as simple as that.
“Actions speak louder than words, and we’re extremely pleased that Premier Roger Cook has responded to our views, our member’s views and the SDA, and, more importantly, the needs of retail workers by taking strong action to deter these violent incidents and keep our retail staff safe.”
Zahra said the ARA is mindful that the majority of customers are respectful and do the right thing, but said a small minority are making retail a dangerous environment to work in.
Zahra also praised WA Police for their collaboration with retailers including more targeted policing operations to protect retail precincts.
“Our retailers can’t tackle this alone – they need the assistance of the police to help catch these criminals,” Zahra said. “In turn our police need the justice system to take these new laws seriously and use them.
“We have advocated for tougher penalties for a good reason – we think if enforced the new tougher penalties will help businesses immensely and reduce the pressure on police.
“This initiative will be warmly welcomed by our retail community. With this new legislation we are sending a strong message that this behaviour won’t be tolerated.”