The SDA has welcomed the introduction of new legislation into the NSW Parliament today that would establish Workplace Protection Orders (WPOs), a major step forward in protecting retail workers from customer aggression, threats and violence.
The Union, which represents retail, fast-food, pharmacy and warehouse workers across Newcastle, the Hunter and the Central Coast, has long campaigned for stronger measures to address escalating violence in retail workplaces.
Under the proposed laws, retailers and the SDA would be able to seek Workplace Protection Orders against repeat aggressive and violent customers, preventing them from returning to a workplace.
SDA Newcastle and Northern Branch Secretary David Bliss said the legislation would provide an important new tool to tackle repeat offending and improve worker safety.
“A relatively small number of offenders are responsible for a disproportionate amount of customer aggression and violence in retail workplaces. Around 10 per cent of offenders account for more than 60 per cent of serious incidents.”
“With retail crime increasing by 43 per cent across our region in recent years, the need for stronger protections for retail workers has never been clearer.”
The legislation builds on tougher penalties introduced in 2023 for criminal assaults on retail workers and shifts the focus towards preventing incidents before they occur.
“No worker should have to come to work fearing abuse, threats or violence,” Mr Bliss said.
“These Workplace Protection Orders will help stop known offenders from repeatedly targeting workers and will send a clear message that violence and aggression against retail workers will not be tolerated.”
The SDA has worked alongside members, employers and the NSW Government to advocate for stronger protections for workers facing customer abuse and violence.
“This reform has been driven by workers sharing their experiences and speaking out about the reality of abuse in retail workplaces.”
“Every worker who has raised their voice on this issue has helped make these reforms possible.”
“We look forward to the legislation passing the Parliament and these important new protections being put in place as quickly as possible.”
David Bliss is available for interview.
Media contact: Rachael Harris 0428 110 065