MEDIA RELEASE
The Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association (SDA) has expressed its concern following the alleged stabbing of a retail worker at Spotlight in Glenorchy on Saturday and has renewed calls for stronger protections for retail workers across Tasmania.
SDA Tasmania Secretary Joel Tynan said the alleged incident was a stark reminder of the growing risks faced by frontline retail workers simply doing their jobs.
“Our thoughts are with the worker who was injured, their family, workmates and everyone affected by this frightening incident,” Mr Tynan said.
“No retail worker should have to fear violence at work. Every worker deserves to come home safely at the end of their shift.
“While police investigations are ongoing, this alleged incident highlights the very real safety concerns retail workers experience across Tasmania.”
Mr Tynan said the SDA welcomed calls from Independent Member for Elwick Bec Thomas for greater action to address workplace violence and improve protections for workers.
“Retail and fast food workers are often the face of businesses and are increasingly being exposed to aggressive and violent behaviour,” Mr Tynan said.
“We support practical measures that improve worker safety and help prevent violent incidents before they occur.
“Workplace protection orders, stronger responses to repeat offenders, and measures that reduce access to dangerous weapons should all be seriously considered as part of a comprehensive approach to community safety.”
Mr Tynan said any reform package must place the experiences of workers at its centre and ensure employees, unions, employers and law enforcement agencies are actively consulted.
“Workers know the risks they face better than anyone. Their voices must be heard when governments are developing solutions,” he said.
“Retail workers should not be expected to tolerate threats, intimidation or violence as part of their job.
“This is not simply a law-and-order issue. It is a workplace safety issue.”
The SDA is calling on all sides of politics to work constructively together to deliver meaningful reforms that improve safety in retail workplaces and protect workers from violence.
“Every incident of violence has a lasting impact on workers, their colleagues and their families,” Mr Tynan said.
“The community expects action, and retail workers deserve action.
“We all have a responsibility to ensure that people can go to work and return home safely.”
ENDS
Media Contact:
Joel Tynan
Secretary